Gravensteen

Only medieval castle left in Flanders, in the middle of the city of Ghent

The Gravensteen in the city of Ghent is a famous castle, and its construction started in 879. The gatehouse, the wall, the keep, the duke’s residence and the horse stables are open to visitors.

The more than impressive Castle of the Counts is a famous castle. The construction of this started already in 879. You can easily visit this castle, it's a dive into the past of this region in Belgium.

You can explore a large part of The Gravensteen. Including the gatehouse, the rampart, the keep, the count's residence and the horse stables are accessible. You can also see here how people were tortured in the past.

Best view of Ghent?

The view from The Gravensteen on Ghent.

You will notice it when you walk around the castle. From the towers of Gravensteen you have a beautiful view over the city. You can see how beautiful Ghent is. This is certainly true at the end of the day when the sun is setting.

Visit the castle yourself

You can visit The Gravensteen yourself easily. If you buy your tickets online you will receive an audio guide. So you can listen to background information.

Visit The Gravensteen with a guide

If you want to know a lot about this special castle, a guided tour is the best option. The guide gives a lot of information and will answer your questions. Believe me, you will have questions when you walk around the castle.

Walking around The Gravensteen.

Book Your Tour Online

History of Gravensteen

This fortified moated castle has a long past. Count Boudewijn had the first fortification built between 837 and 879. This was mainly to keep the Vikings out. Scientists think that it was Count Arnulf who literally laid the foundation for the current castle in the years. In the following centuries, Gravensteen was often rebuilt or decorated differently.

The famous great halls and the imposing stone staircase date back to the 11th century. Just like the wall fireplaces and latrines, they show the luxury of that time. The castle was first restored in the 19th century. Although it is not entirely clear whether the medieval construction was adhered to.

A major restoration has been underway since 2009. Among other things, the ivy was removed from the walls. This shrub affected the stones too much. Since 2016 you can see water again around Gravensteen, as it used to be.

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