Experts' Choice Award Gravensteen
What the experts agree on
This imposing 12th-century stone fortress was built to intimidate Ghent's citizens, complete with a moat and turrets. The dark history—including torture chambers—gives it a genuinely eerie atmosphere that justifies its fortress reputation.
“This fairytale castle was built as a show of power but was nearly torn down thanks to its history of torture. ”
– Atlas Obscura
Frommer's "It's safe to say that the castle's very appearance did much to instill the awe and fear necessary to keep the people of Ghent in line." Full review
Lonely PlanetTop choice
"The counts of Flanders’ quintessential 12th-century stone castle comes complete with moat, turrets and arrow slits." Full review
Afar Magazine "Going here and seeing all the instruments of torture really sent shivers down my spine." Full review
Fodor's "Modeled after a Crusader's castle in modern-day Syria, was built in 1180 by the Count of Flanders on top of an existing fortress...today's brooding castle has little in common with the original " Full review
The Guardian "At Gravensteen, the medieval castle that was home to the powerful counts of Flanders, an audio tour by a local comedian brings stark privies and dungeons to life. Gentians, we learnt, are..."
The adoration of Ghent: art, history and flavours in Flanders
February 23, 2020
Lonely Planet "On 19–20 ril 1566, Calvinist rioters sought to destroy the altarpiece, as it was a symbol of Catholicism. It was preserved by local Catholics, who disassembled it and hid its panels in..."
National Geographic
