Gravensteen, Medieval fortress in central Ghent, Belgium
Gravensteen is a castle fortress in the heart of Ghent with a central stone keep, surrounded by high walls and numerous towers that rise above the medieval cityscape. The entire fortification is enclosed by a moat that remains visible today.
The fortress was built around 1180 by Philip of Alsace to demonstrate power and control the city's trade. It remained one of the strongest military structures in Flanders for centuries.
The castle displays medieval weapons and objects that reflect the daily life and power structures of that time. Walking through its rooms shows how authority and justice were exercised in medieval Flanders.
Visitors can climb the ramparts, descend into the dungeons, and explore the various rooms of the castle, with multilingual audio guides available to help navigate. The interior is open daily and allows plenty of time to walk through all areas.
In 1949, students entered the castle to protest rising beer prices and changes to police uniforms. This remains the only known time the fortress was overtaken through such an occupation.
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