This massive fort was once the grand residence of the counts of Flanders, who were inspired by the bulky castles built by the Crusaders in Syria.
Gravensteen is now one of Europe’s best-preserved examples of a moated fortress, and it is incredibly well-preserved.
Its impressively thick and high walls rise from the waters of the Lieve right in the heart of Ghent’s old town, rising above the rooftops of the surrounding streets.
The vast arched halls and chambers inside contain exhibits of mediaeval life, but the castle’s architecture is the real star of the show. Climb to the roof for panoramic views of the city before strolling through Ghent’s charming stone-paved streets.
If you only see one church in Bruges, make it this one. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is notable not only for its fusion of Romanesque and late Gothic architecture, but also for the sacred relic housed within.
The upper chapel houses the church’s famous vial, which is said to contain a drop of Jesus Christ’s blood that was brought back to Belgium after the Second Crusade.
Even if you’re not interested in holy relics, the interior of the church is a dazzling riot of gild work that was completed in the 16th century and is worth a visit.
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