Castle of the Counts of Flanders

The castle of the Counts of Flanders can be seen in the Belgian city of Ghent. It is the only medieval castle in this area, although the country has a huge number of beautiful historical centers, as well as majestic buildings. The castle is open to visitors all year round with the exception of December 24, 25 and 31, as well as January 1.

Brief description

All defensive systems of the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, down to the cannons and bridges, have survived to this day in their original condition. The history of the site begins with the fact that Count Baudouin the First decided to build a defensive structure in these places that would protect him and his retinue from the attacks of the Vikings in Western Europe. The castle of the Counts of Flanders was reconstructed several times; it was the residence of the counts who ruled in this territory of Belgium in those years. In its modern form, the castle was transformed thanks to Count Philip of Alsace, who built additional walls, more than 20 towers, and a defensive moat here.

Features of the Castle of the Counts of Flanders

In addition to the fact that the Castle of the Counts of Flanders served as a defensive structure, its purpose changed several times - from the mid-14th century the castle served as a mint. Later it was used as the building of the Supreme Court, the Council of Flanders, and in one of the defensive towers there was a real textile factory, where they sewed things that were supplied to various parts of Europe.

In our time, the city authorities were able to solve the problem of the castle, which was that it was used incorrectly in terms of tourism - it was closed to the public. Now the attraction is completely open for excursions; there is a museum of justice and weapons, where visitors are provided with instruments and objects of torture that were used at the trial. The Castle of the Counts of Flanders surprises with its splendor, as well as the unsurpassed atmosphere that reigns within the walls of this ancient building with a very rich history.