Gravensteen Castle
2023-07-01
Gravensteen Castle is a castle in Ghent, East Flanders. Otherwise known as the 'Castle of Counts', it's a gem in the middle of Ghent. While the castle is not so hidden in the middle of Ghent, it is one of Belgium's most well preserved fortresses and definitely warrants a visit.
The 12th century castle was home to the Counts of Flanders between 1180 to 1353 and it served as a prison and court until the 18th century. Many people argued due to the castle's dark history of prison and torture it should be torn down, but instead it serves as a prominant landmark in downtown Ghent. Guided tours of the castle and the adjacent torture museum are available daily from 10-6.
I would also highly recommend a boat tour of the romantic Ghent waterways which allowed you to see the castle from another perspective. This 40-minute tour will offer beautiful views of the Ghent waterways on the River Leie.
A visit to beautiful Ghent and the Gravensteen castle should be a must on your Belgium adventure.