Gravensteen, also known as the Castle of the Counts, stands in the heart of Ghent, in the Flemish region of Belgium. It was the residence of the Counts of Flanders, and its medieval fortress walls still give a strong sense of the city's past. The castle sits at Sint-Veerleplein 11, within walking distance of the historic centre.
What to expect
The main draw is the building itself. Its thick stone walls and towers rise directly from the city streets, and walking through the grounds gives a clear picture of how a medieval stronghold was arranged and defended. The site is a good choice for anyone interested in castles, medieval architecture or the history of the Counts of Flanders.
Visitors can also explore the torture museum housed within the castle. It presents the history of punishment and interrogation, and suits those with a curiosity about the darker side of the past. Parts of the displays may be unsettling for some, so it is worth bearing that in mind before going in.
Views and surroundings
From the upper parts of the castle, visitors can take in panoramic views over Ghent. The vantage point makes it easy to see how the rooftops, canals and church spires fit together across the city.
Gravensteen works well as part of a day in Ghent. The old town, with its waterways and churches, lies close by, so a visit to the castle can be combined with a wander through the surrounding streets. For current contact details, you can call +32 9 225 93 06 before you travel.
