Dulle Griet, Medieval cannon at Market Square, Ghent, Belgium
Dulle Griet is a medieval bombard made from 32 iron bars held together by 61 metal rings, extending over 5 meters in length. The cannon sits in Ghent's historic center near the Friday Market in plain view.
Ghent deployed this cannon during the siege of Oudenaarde in 1452 as a tool of war. The city reclaimed it permanently in 1578 and has kept it ever since.
The cannon takes its name from Flemish folklore about a legendary warrior woman. This connection to local stories makes it more than just a weapon when you walk past it.
The cannon sits outdoors in a central location, so you can view it anytime without restriction. You can walk around it and see it from all angles since nothing blocks your access.
This cannon is one of three identical bombards made in Mons during the same period. A sister piece called Mons Meg now sits in Edinburgh, making this one of a rare surviving trio.
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