Just an hour from Brussels, the Castle of the Counts stands imposingly in the historic center of Ghent. Behind its high stone walls lie nine centuries of history, spanning the Crusades, popular uprisings, and the Industrial Revolution. Today, this fascinating fortress draws visitors as much for the majesty of its keep as for the eerie atmosphere of a torture chamber that fascinates as much as it terrifies…
A castle at the heart of Flemish history
Built in 1180 by Count Philip of Alsace, the Castle of the Counts of Flanders is one of the finest examples of the Middle Ages in Belgium. Built on the banks of the Lys River, it was intended to demonstrate the power of the Counts of Flanders as much as to protect the city. A 33-meter-high keep, crenellated ramparts, watchtowers, and moats are reminders of its military function. But the castle has also had many different uses! It served as an aristocratic residence, a prison, a center for repression during revolts, and later a cotton mill during the Industrial Revolution. Every stone of this fortress tells a different chapter in Ghent’s eventful history.
A living fortress in the heart of Ghent
Today, the castle is one of the city’s major attractions. Restored in the late 19th century, it welcomes thousands of visitors who stroll along its ramparts, explore the crypt, or climb to the top of the keep for a breathtaking view of Ghent. The audio guide, punctuated with humor by Flemish actor Wouter Deprez, makes the visit both informative and entertaining. Concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events are also regularly held there, making the castle a place where history meets contemporary life.
The Torture Chamber: A Mix of Thrill and Fascination
Among the most striking rooms, the torture chamber is a must-see. Housed in the former pantry, this collection of medieval instruments illustrates the methods of justice from an era when severity reigned supreme. Far from being merely sensationalist, the exhibition helps visitors understand the role these objects played in society at the time. Straddling the line between fascination and unease, this room is as captivating as it is thought-provoking, adding a striking touch to your exploration of the Château des Comtes. You’ll also find a rich collection of period artifacts there! Weapons and armor, a crypt, a keep, dungeons, a stable, and the counts’ living quarters.
📍Address: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
