About Gravensteen

Shrouded in mystery and a dark past, the Gravensteen is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Also known as the Castle of the Count, it is located in the Flemish city of Ghent. It is the only remaining medieval castle with a largely intact defense system and a moat in Flanders. The current castle dates back to 1180. It has a past filled with dark memories of death and torture. Until 1353, it served as the residence of the Counts of Flanders. Post that, the castle was repurposed for various things right from being used as a prison to a cotton factory. Because of the atrocities and horror associated with the castle’s past, it was almost nearly torn down in the 1800s. However, a group of historic site preservations realized the architectural value of the edifice and prevented it from being razed to the ground. It has been heavily restored and open to the public in today’s time.
One of the many areas to see in the castle include the count’s residence, ramparts, stables, keep, and gatehouse. Don’t let its dark past hinder you from visiting this archaeologically rich structure. You can go for the audio visit, which has been voiced by a local comedian Wouter Deprez. This brings a touch of humor to the setting and makes it a memorable experience for you.
 

Must See

  • Castle itself is an important attraction and an old architectural building in the heart of the city
  • Major highlights are
  • The count’s residence
  • Ramparts (climb the ramparts of the castle’s tall central building to enjoy the excellent views of Ghent's medieval skyline from the top)
  • Stables
  • Gatehouse
  • The castle crypt
  • The court hall and the enormous banquet hall
  • Gruesome Museum of Instruments of Torture
  • Crammed with weaponry
  • Armor and medieval torture devices. 

How to reach

Best way to travel to Gravensteen is to take the tram line 1, the trip will take about a half-hour and the cost will be around 10 to13 EUR
Another cheapest way is to take the bus lines 3, 17, 18, 38 and 39  which costs 2 to 5 EURO and takes 1hour 21minutes

The quickest way is to take a taxi which costs 110 to 140 EURO and takes 41 minutes

Tips

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • The audio guide is included in the price
  • There are some seating arrangements inside where one can rest for a while
  • Lots of steps are there so wear a comfortable pair of shoe
  • Some of the stairways may be difficult for an older person or the person who has difficulties walking
  • There is a little gift shop with lots of things appropriate for kids
  • Not handicap friendly
  • Flash photography is prohibited
  • Parking is available
  • There is a place to eat and drink near the central court
  • Most importantly book your ticket online prior to your visit. It will save a lot of time

Visit Time

Sunday:            10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
Monday:            10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
Tuesday:           10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
Wednesday:      10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
Thursday:          10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
Friday:               10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
Saturday:           10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

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Waiting Time

None

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

General price is 8 EUR.
EUR 6 for age between 19 to 25 years and EUR 7.5 for people age above 65 years, teachers.
Tickets Free for carers of disabled, younger than 18 years.
 

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Time you can spend

1 hour

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 6.81°C

 

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