Cities
Belgium Ghent Flemish Region Fortress

Geeraard de Duivelsteen

About

Geeraard de Duivelsteen is one of Ghent’s most atmospheric medieval landmarks, instantly recognisable for its dark stone walls and fortress‑like silhouette. Built in the thirteenth century, the structure was named after the knight Geeraard Vilain, known as “the Devil” for his striking appearance rather than any sinister deeds. Over the centuries, the building served many roles, including an arsenal, monastery, school, and even a prison, each leaving traces in its architecture. Although not always open to the public, its imposing exterior and riverside location make it a compelling stop for anyone exploring the city’s historic core. Geeraard de Duivelsteen stands as a powerful reminder of Ghent’s layered past, blending legend, history, and enduring medieval charm.

Ghent Belgium
Geeraard de Duivelsteen
Location

Geeraard de Duivelsteen is located at Geraard de Duivelstraat 1 in Ghent's historic city centre, near the Reep canal that once formed the vital Portus Ganda trading port. This 13th-century Gothic fortress, built by knight Geeraard Vilain (nicknamed "the Devil" for his dark features), stands in the shadow of the famous three towers—St. Bavo's Cathedral, the Belfry and St. Nicholas' Church—just a short walk from Sint-Baafsplein, Hoogpoort and Veldstraat shopping street. Nearby you'll find the Town Hall, Graslei waterfronts along the Leie river, charming Patershol alleys with eateries, and easy access via Korenmarkt tram stops or central parking, making it perfect for exploring Ghent's medieval core on foot.

Museum voor Schone Kunsten Museum voor Schone Kunsten Museum SMAK - Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art SMAK - Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art Museum STAM - Ghent City Museum STAM - Ghent City Museum Museum Museum of Industry Ghent Museum of Industry Ghent Museum Huis van Alijn Huis van Alijn Museum GUM - Gents Universiteitsmuseum & Plantentuin GUM - Gents Universiteitsmuseum & Plantentuin Museum Design Museum Gent Design Museum Gent Museum Museum Dr. Guislain Museum Dr. Guislain Museum Herbert Foundation Herbert Foundation Museum Flanders Expo Flanders Expo Events Venue Kunsthal Gent Kunsthal Gent Gallery Kristof De Clercq gallery Kristof De Clercq gallery Gallery TATJANA PIETERS TATJANA PIETERS Gallery Capitole Ghent Capitole Ghent Theatre NTGent NTGent Theatre Opera Ghent Opera Ghent Opera House Theater Tinnenpot Theater Tinnenpot Theatre CAMPO Nieuwpoort kunstencentrum CAMPO Nieuwpoort kunstencentrum Theatre VIERNULVIER VIERNULVIER Events Venue Gravensteen Gravensteen Castle Saint Bavo’s Cathedral Saint Bavo’s Cathedral Cathedral Saint Nicholas’ Church Saint Nicholas’ Church Church St James’ Church St James’ Church Church Saint Michael’s Church Saint Michael’s Church Church St Anne’s Church St Anne’s Church Church Church of St. Stefanus Church of St. Stefanus Church Church of St Anthony of Padua Church of St Anthony of Padua Church Belfry of Ghent Belfry of Ghent Historical Landmark Korenlei Korenlei Street Jacob van Artevelde Jacob van Artevelde Statue Stadshal Stadshal Historical Landmark Graffiti Street Graffiti Street Historical Landmark Saint Michael's Bridge Saint Michael's Bridge Bridge Citadelpark Citadelpark Park Monument Jan Frans Willems Monument Jan Frans Willems Monument Koning Albertpark Koning Albertpark Park Playground Blaarmeersen Playground Blaarmeersen Park Paul de Smet de Naeyer Park Paul de Smet de Naeyer Park Park Universiteit Gent - Botanical Garden Universiteit Gent - Botanical Garden Botanical Garden Wondelgemse meersen Wondelgemse meersen Park UGent Volkssterrenwacht Armand Pien UGent Volkssterrenwacht Armand Pien Observatory