Dulle Griet Cannon
Gaze upon 'Mad Meg,' Europe's largest preserved medieval wrought-iron cannon, a colossal 15th-century siege weapon in Ghent.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer bikes, better photos
Dulle Griet Cannon
Best Time
Fewer bikes, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gaze upon 'Mad Meg,' Europe's largest preserved medieval wrought-iron cannon, a colossal 15th-century siege weapon in Ghent.
"A quick but impressive stop to see a giant piece of medieval history along Ghent's canals."
📸 Best Photo Spot
Visit early morning to avoid bikes and get clear shots of the impressive 'Mad Meg' cannon.
🧐 Learn its History
Read the information panel near the bridge for fascinating details about its construction and use.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Mad Meg' Cannon
Groot Kanonplein
Gaze upon the largest preserved medieval wrought-iron bombard in Western Europe. A true giant of history!
Intricate Construction Details
Cannon barrel
Marvel at the 32 iron bars and 42 hoops that form this colossal weapon, a testament to medieval engineering.
Duke of Burgundy's Coat of Arms
Cannon vent
Spot the historical emblem of Philip the Good, a subtle but significant detail on this ancient siege weapon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Quick Stop with a Big Story
Context is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spot
Visit early morning to avoid bikes and get clear shots of the impressive 'Mad Meg' cannon.
🧐 Learn its History
Read the information panel near the bridge for fascinating details about its construction and use.
Burgundian mega-bombards!
🍺 Beer Experience Nearby
Consider Dulle Griet pub for a unique beer experience with a giant 1.25L glass!
🚶♂️ Quick Stop
It's a great spot for a brief look and photo while exploring Ghent's canals.
I’m in gent: Belgium! Any essential beers to try?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spot
Visit early morning to avoid bikes and get clear shots of the impressive 'Mad Meg' cannon.
🧐 Learn its History
Read the information panel near the bridge for fascinating details about its construction and use.
🍺 Beer Experience Nearby
Consider Dulle Griet pub for a unique beer experience with a giant 1.25L glass!
🚶♂️ Quick Stop
It's a great spot for a brief look and photo while exploring Ghent's canals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Dulle Griet cannon to be an impressive historical artifact, notable for its sheer size and medieval engineering. While it's a quick stop, its historical significance and the nearby pub offering a unique beer experience are often highlighted as positives. Some note it could benefit from maintenance and that bicycles can sometimes obstruct views.
"After being used in various defenses, this type of cannon lost its importance because they're too heavy, and it was moved to its current location in 1783, where it has stood for over 200 years."
Cenk Yüce
"Cannon have historical importance as it is used by Maximillian I in the end of 15th Century.. But now it’s just a show piece to see when you pass by the canal in Ghent .. And if you would like to see the proper view , better to go when the brews and pubs are not opened as it will be surrounded by cycles and you may miss the view"
Greeshma Sajanish
"The Groot Kanon is a 12,5000 kg cannon situated along the canal at Groot Kanonplein. According to the information panel near the bridge, this large red coloured cannon has been situated at this location for 425 years but was never used.
There are some interesting monuments to see while browsing the streets and canals of Ghent. The Groot Kanon is one of them. Just have a quick look and enjoy its impressive size when passing by. Then continue onward, enjoying your time in this lovely city.
Note: The information panel for the Groot Kanon is located near the bridge which crosses the canal 15 metres away from the cannon."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dulle Griet cannon is located along the canal at Groot Kanonplein in Ghent. It's easily accessible on foot as you explore the city center. Many visitors find it while walking along the canals or near the Vrijdagmarkt.
Yes, the cannon is centrally located in Ghent and is within walking distance of several tram and bus stops. It's a common stop for those exploring the historic city center.
While you can drive to the general area, parking directly at the cannon's location might be difficult due to its central, pedestrian-friendly nature. It's recommended to park in a nearby car park and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Dulle Griet cannon is an outdoor monument and is freely accessible to the public at all times. There are no tickets or entry fees required.
As an outdoor monument, the Dulle Griet cannon can be viewed at any time of day or night. However, for the best viewing and photography, daylight hours are recommended.
There is no admission fee to see the Dulle Griet cannon. It's a public monument that you can admire as part of your exploration of Ghent.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Seeing the Dulle Griet cannon is typically a quick experience, often just a few minutes for a photo and to read the information panel. It's usually part of a larger city exploration.
The cannon is located near the Vrijdagmarkt and canals, offering opportunities for canal tours, exploring historic streets, and visiting nearby pubs and cafes.
Yes, the Dulle Griet cannon is a popular spot for photography due to its impressive size and historical significance. Early mornings are best to avoid obstructions like bicycles.
The Dulle Griet, or 'Mad Meg,' is the largest preserved medieval wrought-iron bombard from Western Europe, likely founded between 1430-1450. It was probably used in the siege of Oudenaarde in 1452.
While there are no explicit barriers, it's generally advised not to touch historical monuments to preserve them. Admire its scale and details from a respectful distance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the cannon is located in a vibrant area of Ghent with many cafes, restaurants, and pubs nearby, especially around the Vrijdagmarkt.
Absolutely! The Dulle Griet pub is famous for its unique beer experience, serving drinks in a large, 1.25L glass. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings are ideal for photographing the Dulle Griet cannon. This is when the area is less crowded, and you'll have fewer bicycles obstructing your view.
Try capturing the cannon from different perspectives along the canal. Getting a wider shot that includes the canal and surrounding architecture can provide great context.
Focus on the massive muzzle, the intricate iron bar construction, and the coat of arms of Philip the Good near the vent for detailed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Encourage kids to look for the different historical emblems on the cannon. The nearby Vrijdagmarkt area often has open spaces where children can move around freely. Consider a canal tour for a different perspective of the city and its historical sites.
📸 Photographers
Tip: Aim for early morning shoots to avoid the crowds and the ubiquitous bicycles that often surround the cannon. Experiment with different angles, including shots that incorporate the canal reflections or the nearby bridges for added depth and interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Dulle Griet
Likely founded between 1430 and 1450 on the orders of Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, the cannon saw action, most notably during the siege of Oudenaarde in 1452. After its military service, it was moved to its current location in Ghent. The cannon's enduring presence is marked by its bluestone supports, installed in 1783, replacing earlier timber structures. These details offer a tangible connection to centuries of history, allowing visitors to appreciate the cannon not just as a relic, but as a functional piece of medieval military technology.
Historical Significance and Ghent's Heritage
Visitors can find historical context through an information panel located near the bridge, approximately 15 meters away from the cannon. This panel provides details about its origins, construction, and historical use, enriching the visitor's understanding. The presence of the coat of arms of Philip the Good, along with emblems of Brabant, Limburg, and Flanders, further connects the cannon to the political landscape of the time, making it a focal point for understanding regional history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit