Gravensteen-site

You are no longer in the historical heart of Ghent (the ‘kuip’), but on ‘s Gravensgrond (the count’s land).

Originally, this area belonged to the count and therefore not to the city. You can get the best ‘taste’ of the Middle Ages in the splendid Patershol: the old street plan is authentic and the numerous charming little restaurants offer unrivalled culinary variety.

Charles V was also born nearby, in the Prinsenhof.

Castle of the Counts

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Gravensteen route ]

An imposing stronghold in the heart of the city. Follow the digital tour or simply close your eyes and imagine yourself as a knight or noblewoman.

Patershol

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Patershol route ]

Authentic medieval district in the shadow of the Castle of the Counts. Today the Patershol is the place to be for those who appreciate fine food and drink.

Prinsenhof

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Prinsenhof route ]

In the 14th century, Lodewijk van Male swapped the Castle of the Counts, which had grown uncomfortable, for a town house in this neighbourhood. It was here that Charles V was born in 1500. The Prinsenhof, as it was called then (and still is), was around 2 hectares in size and fully walled.

Old Fish Market

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Vismijn route ]

Opposite the Castle of the Counts on the Sint-Veerleplein lies the monumental gateway to the Old Fish Market...

Carmelite Friary – Provincial Centre of Art and Culture

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Caermersklooster route ]

At the end of the last century, this friary of the Calced Carmelites was fully restored.

The House of Alijn

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Huis van Alijn route ]

When you enter the splendid indoor garden of this former place of worship, it seems as if you have left the city. Inside...

Augustine Monastery

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

The home of the Augustines was founded in 1296 when the Bishop of Tournai gave these preachers...

Old St Elizabeth Beguinage

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Oud Begijnhof route ]

Ghent has no fewer than three authentic beguinages, all of which are recognised by UNESCO as world heritage sites. This is one...

Carmelite Monastery

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

The Carmelite Monks form a living community in Ghent...

Rabot

Historisch centrum/Gravensteen-site

[Rabot route ]

In 1488, Maximilian of Austria took advantage of a weak point in Ghent’s defences to seize the city. When, after 40 days of siege, his army withdrew without having accomplished their mission, the city...