The bombard was forged in Flanders in the late 15th century and was capable of firing a 330-pound stone ball over a distance of several hundred yards.

It was named after a legendary Flemish warrior woman known as "Dulle Griet," who was said to have used a large iron ball as a weapon.

Albert Manucy, in his book Artillery Through The Ages, writes about its capabilities: "Dulle Griet, the giant bombard of Ghent, had a 25-inch caliber and fired a 700-pound granite ball.

The bombard was also used in ceremonial events, such as the entry of the Holy Roman Emperor into a newly conquered city.

Three cannons were founded: one resides now in Edinburgh castle and is called "Mons Meg", and the last one was in France but has since been lost.