5 Perfect Plans To Enjoy Ghent
Ghent is a beautiful Belgian city, capital of the province of Flanders. Located at the confluence of the River Lys and the River Scheldt, it has been famous for its history of revolts and uprisings in the name of freedom. Birthplace of Emperor Charles V, we propose several plans to enjoy Ghent, a city with wonderful corners.
Its multi-colored houses and endless canals may remind us of other European cities, but Ghent has a natural charm. From its shops to its bohemian cafes, this Belgian city is an essential stop for any lover of culture and art. Therefore, we recommend 5 plans to enjoy Ghent .
1. Conquer the Castle of the Counts of Flanders
The Castle of the Counts of Ghent is located in the urban area of the city. This imposing construction was built in the 12th century and has an excellent state of conservation. In fact, it is the only medieval castle in all of Flanders.
It is possible to visit the different rooms, the walls, the keep and the county residence. Inside there is a museum, where the history of prison life at that time is exposed, since this castle was also a prison. It also displays an impressive collection of weapons and the most terrible torture instruments of all time.
2. Climb the bell tower to enjoy Ghent from above
The belfry , or Belfort, located in the heart of the city, is one of the three characteristic medieval towers that dominate the old town of Ghent. Built during the 14th century, the tower has undergone successive changes, its current image is the result of the remodeling that was carried out in 1911 based on the original plans from 1380.
The tower, 91 meters high, has a famous inhabitant named Roland, who is its main bell. On the other hand, the cloth market and Mammelokker are two rooms attached to the tower that have had different uses, from the textile market to the prison, and both are worth a visit.
3. Discover the church of San Nicolás
Built in the 13th century, this Gothic temple is one of the oldest monuments in Ghent. It is characterized by the blue-gray stone from the Tournai area used in its construction. Also characteristic are the bell tower or lantern on the transept and some small conical roof towers at the corners of the building.
The church was severely damaged during the Protestant Reformation, in which the Gothic ornamentation was lost, and also during the French Revolution and the two world wars, remaining under restoration since 1960. Its interior visit is a must, as well as a long walk through the surrounding gardens.
4. Pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Saint Bavo
The Cathedral of Saint Bavo is a Catholic religious building that functions as the seat of the Diocese of Ghent. The building is the perfect mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. This was where Emperor Charles I of Spain and V of Germany were baptized.
The visit is a must for another reason. Inside there is a small museum. A place to contemplate an authentic artistic treasure such as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, by the Hubert and Jan van Eyck brothers. It also shows other important works by artists such as Rubens, Frans Pourbus the Elder, Gaspar de Crayer or Lucas de Heere.
5. Enjoy Ghent through its gastronomy
While it is not one place to visit, but several, no trip to Belgium is complete without trying 3 things: French fries, chocolate and waffles. There is even a museum dedicated to fried potato, a visit for lovers of this food.
There are bars and cafes where you can enjoy the famous Belgian chocolate, but you will find the most famous in Sint-Michielshelling square. When it comes to waffles, one of the best places to try them is Etablissement Max, a family business known throughout Belgium that has been in business since 1839.
Remember that the weather in Ghent is unpredictable, so you can enjoy each season in the same day. Prepare the suitcases and the camera to immortalize all the moments and treasure them. Ghent is waiting for you with open arms.
