The Castle of the Counts of Flanders<\/h3>\n
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The origins of the Castle of the Counts of Flanders date back to the 9th century, when Count Baldwin I built the first fortifications to protect the region from Viking invasions. Initially constructed in wood, the fortress was gradually reinforced before taking on its current appearance in 1180 under the direction of Philip of Alsace. Inspired by the strongholds encountered during the Crusades, the castle is distinguished by its imposing 33-meter-high keep and powerful defensive walls.<\/p>\n
After serving as the residence of the Counts of Flanders for several centuries, the castle lost its residential role in the 14th century in favor of a more comfortable palace. It was then used as an administrative center, courthouse, and prison. From the late 18th century onward, the site was transformed into an industrial complex housing a cotton mill and various workshops.<\/p>\n
Threatened with demolition in the 19th century, the castle was ultimately saved thanks to the efforts of heritage preservation advocates. The city of Ghent purchased it in 1885 and undertook extensive restoration work to restore its medieval appearance. Today, Gravensteen is considered one of Belgium\u2019s finest medieval castles and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.<\/p>\n
For the full experience, be sure to climb to the top of the ramparts. The view over Ghent\u2019s rooftops, canals, and historic bell towers is particularly spectacular, especially at sunset.<\/p>\n
Saint Bavo\u2019s Cathedral<\/h3>\n
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In the heart of Ghent\u2019s historic center, Saint Bavo\u2019s Cathedral is one of the city\u2019s most remarkable landmarks. This majestic Gothic building, whose origins date back to the 10th century, is now the seat of the Diocese of Ghent and a must-visit for history, architecture, and art enthusiasts.<\/p>\n
The cathedral impresses first with its scale and elegant Brabantine Gothic architecture. Its imposing tower, nearly 90 meters high, dominates the city skyline, while the interior reveals vast luminous naves, magnificent chapels, and numerous artistic treasures. Among its most notable works are paintings by Flemish masters, including a masterpiece by Rubens, as well as superb sculptures and funerary monuments.<\/p>\n
However, the cathedral\u2019s greatest claim to fame is undoubtedly the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb<\/em>. Created by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck and completed in 1432, this masterpiece is considered one of the most important works in the history of Western art. Admired for its intricate detail, rich colors, and extraordinary realism, it attracts visitors from around the world each year.<\/p>\n The cathedral\u2019s history is also closely linked to that of Ghent and Emperor Charles V, who was born in the city. Over the centuries, the building underwent several transformations, suffered damage during the religious conflicts of the 16th century, and endured fires that affected its spire. Despite these challenges, it remains one of Belgium\u2019s most beautiful religious monuments.<\/p>\n During your visit, take time to explore the various chapels, the historic crypt, and the many architectural details that bear witness to more than a thousand years of history.<\/p>\n Located in the heart of the historic center, this magnificent stone bridge offers one of the finest panoramas in Ghent and is a must-see spot for photography enthusiasts.<\/p>\n From the bridge, visitors enjoy exceptional views of the historic Graslei and Korenlei quays, the city\u2019s iconic towers, and the Castle of the Counts of Flanders. It is also one of the few places where all three of Ghent\u2019s famous towers can be seen in a single perspective: Saint Nicholas\u2019 Church, the Belfry, and Saint Bavo\u2019s Cathedral.<\/p>\n Built in the early 20th century to replace an older swing bridge, Saint Michael\u2019s Bridge stands out for its elegant architecture and its imposing central lamppost topped with a statue of the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon. This representation refers to the famous biblical legend in which the archangel drives the forces of evil from heaven.<\/p>\n Located in the heart of Ghent\u2019s historic center, right next to the famous Belfry, the Cloth Hall reflects the wealth and economic power the city enjoyed during the Middle Ages. Built between 1425 and 1441 in an elegant Gothic style, it symbolizes the importance of the textile industry that brought prosperity to Ghent for centuries.<\/p>\n At the time, merchants displayed and inspected the valuable fabrics produced in the region before they were marketed throughout Europe. As a true economic hub of the city, the Cloth Hall illustrates the major role Ghent played in the medieval textile trade.<\/p>\n Today, the building captivates visitors with its refined Gothic architecture, tall pointed windows, imposing buttresses, slender turrets, and numerous carved ornaments. Its elegant fa\u00e7ade blends perfectly with the monumental ensemble formed by the Belfry, City Hall, and Saint Bavo\u2019s Cathedral.<\/p>\n Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Belfry since 1999, the Cloth Hall is one of the symbols of Ghent\u2019s historical heritage. Its interior also provides access to the Belfry, one of the city\u2019s most iconic landmarks, offering superb panoramic views over Ghent\u2019s rooftops.<\/p>\n Rising 95 meters above Ghent\u2019s historic center, the Belfry was built in the 14th century and once embodied the city\u2019s power, autonomy, and civic freedoms. The city\u2019s charters and privileges were safeguarded within its walls, making the tower a true symbol of Ghent\u2019s independence.<\/p>\n The most famous feature of the Belfry is undoubtedly its golden dragon, which has watched over the city for centuries. This imposing weather vane, now one of Ghent\u2019s most recognizable symbols, is surrounded by numerous local legends. The original dragon, dating from the 14th century, is preserved inside the monument, while a replica crowns the top of the tower.<\/p>\n Inside, visitors can discover the history of the Belfry as well as its impressive carillon of 46 bells. Among them is the legendary \u201cKlokke Roeland,\u201d a mythical bell deeply connected to the city\u2019s history and Flemish folk traditions. The melodies of the carillon still regularly echo through the streets of the historic center.<\/p>\n The visit concludes with one of the finest panoramic viewpoints in Ghent, accessible from the top of the tower.<\/p>\n Located on Korenmarkt Square in the heart of Ghent\u2019s historic center, Saint Nicholas\u2019 Church is one of the city\u2019s oldest monuments. With its majestic silhouette and distinctive tower, it forms part of Ghent\u2019s famous \u201cThree Towers,\u201d alongside the Belfry and Saint Bavo\u2019s Cathedral.<\/p>\n Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, the church is a remarkable example of Scheldt Gothic architecture, a style typical of the Scheldt Valley. It is particularly distinguished by its use of Tournai blue stone, its large lantern tower rising above the crossing of the transept, and the smaller turrets that reinforce the stability of the structure.<\/p>\n During the Middle Ages, the church occupied a central place in Ghent\u2019s commercial life. Located near the grain market, it was especially popular with merchants and guilds, many of which maintained their own chapels within the building. Before the construction of the Belfry, its bell tower even served as a watchtower and housed the city\u2019s communal bells.<\/p>\n The interior impresses visitors with its spaciousness, soaring Gothic vaults, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can also admire a remarkable organ built by the renowned French organ maker Aristide Cavaill\u00e9-Coll, whose instruments are celebrated worldwide.<\/p>\n After centuries marked by wars, harsh weather, and the passage of time, the church underwent extensive restoration campaigns that helped restore much of its original splendor.<\/p>\n The true beating heart of Ghent, Korenmarkt\u2014or \u201cGrain Market\u201d\u2014is one of the city\u2019s liveliest and most frequented squares. Located between Saint Nicholas\u2019 Church and the banks of the River Lys, this spacious square has served for centuries as an important meeting place, marketplace, and center of social life.<\/p>\n As early as the Middle Ages, Korenmarkt was Ghent\u2019s main grain market. Goods arrived by boat via the Lys and Scheldt rivers before being sold in this strategic location. Thanks to its central position, the district quickly developed and became one of the city\u2019s principal commercial hubs.<\/p>\n Today, Korenmarkt is surrounded by several of Ghent\u2019s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can admire the majestic Saint Nicholas\u2019 Church as well as the Old Post Office, a remarkable neo-Gothic building that dominates the square. The many terraces, caf\u00e9s, and restaurants lining the area make it an ideal place to take a break and enjoy the local atmosphere.<\/p>\n Over the centuries, the square also played a major role in the city\u2019s transportation network. It successively served as a stop for stagecoaches and later became an important junction in Ghent\u2019s tram system. This tradition continues today, as Korenmarkt remains one of the main transportation hubs of the city center.<\/p>\n Ghent-Saint-Peter\u2019s Station (Gent-Sint-Pieters) is the city\u2019s main gateway. Built in 1912 for the Ghent World\u2019s Fair of 1913, it impresses visitors both through its strategic importance and its monumental architecture.<\/p>\n Designed by architect Louis Cloquet, the station features an elegant eclectic style combining Neo-Gothic influences with decorative elements characteristic of the early 20th century. Its imposing clock tower has become one of the district\u2019s most recognizable landmarks.<\/p>\n Inside, travelers can admire magnificent murals created for the 1913 World\u2019s Fair. These artworks depict several Belgian cities and highlight Ghent\u2019s role as a showcase of the nation at the beginning of the 20th century.<\/p>\n Today, the station serves as a major transportation hub connecting Ghent to Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Ostend, and many other Belgian cities. Thanks to the tram and bus lines departing directly from the station, the historic city center can be reached in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n Among Ghent\u2019s most iconic squares, the Vrijdagmarkt, or \u201cFriday Market,\u201d holds a special place in the city\u2019s history. Established at the end of the 12th century, this vast square\u2014nearly 100 meters on each side\u2014has served for more than 800 years as a center for commerce, gatherings, and major public events.<\/p>\n As its name suggests, a weekly market has been held here every Friday since 1199. It was the setting for public assemblies, official celebrations, and some of the most significant events in Flemish history.<\/p>\n At the center of the square stands the statue of Jacob van Artevelde, one of Ghent\u2019s most important historical figures. Known as the \u201cWise Man of Ghent,\u201d this 14th-century leader played a major role during the Hundred Years\u2019 War by aligning Flanders with England to preserve the region\u2019s economic prosperity.<\/p>\n Surrounding the square, visitors can admire beautiful guild houses that bear witness to the city\u2019s rich mercantile past. Today, these historic buildings house numerous caf\u00e9s, restaurants, and terraces where visitors can relax and enjoy the local atmosphere. In one corner of the square stands the People\u2019s House, \u201cOns Huis,\u201d a remarkable example of Ghent Art Nouveau architecture.<\/p>\n If Ghent is famous for its castles, churches, and canals, the city has also become one of Belgium\u2019s capitals of street art. Behind its medieval fa\u00e7ades lies a particularly dynamic urban art scene that transforms the streets into a genuine open-air gallery.<\/p>\n As you stroll through the city, you will discover numerous large-scale murals created by local and international artists. Among the most famous is ROA, a Ghent-born artist internationally recognized for his striking black-and-white animal paintings, which can be seen in several neighborhoods throughout the city. Other artists such as Bu\u00e9 the Warrior, Joachim, and Super A have also left their mark on Ghent\u2019s walls with colorful and original creations.<\/p>\n One of the most iconic locations is undoubtedly Graffiti Street (Werregarenstraat). This small alleyway in the historic center has become a true artistic laboratory where graffiti artists can express themselves freely. The artwork changes constantly, offering visitors an ever-evolving backdrop. Every visit brings new discoveries, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.<\/p>\n Glass Alley (Glazen Straatje) is a small covered passageway located in Ghent\u2019s red-light district, known for the neon-lit windows that gave it its name.<\/p>\n Created in the Pieter Vanderdoncktdoorgang passage in the mid-19th century, it was originally a shopping arcade before gradually becoming associated with the red-light district. Ghent\u2019s red-light area is mainly concentrated around Belgradostraat and Schepenenvijverstraat, with Glass Alley serving as its most recognizable landmark.<\/p>\n Located near the famous Saint Michael\u2019s Bridge, Saint Michael\u2019s Church was built between the 15th and 19th centuries in the Gothic style. It impresses visitors with its grand scale and elegant architecture. Its tower, which was originally intended to be crowned by an imposing spire inspired by that of Antwerp Cathedral, was never completed due to financial constraints, giving the church its distinctive appearance today.<\/p>\n The church interior contains a rich artistic heritage, including magnificent confessionals, 18th-century statues, and several works by renowned Flemish masters. Among its most remarkable treasures are a painting of Christ on the Cross by Anthony van Dyck, as well as works by Gaspard de Crayer and Philippe de Champaigne.<\/p>\n Long associated with the city\u2019s guilds, particularly the tavern keepers\u2019 guild, the church reflects Ghent\u2019s religious and cultural importance throughout the centuries.<\/p>\n The uniqueness of Ghent City Hall lies in its remarkable architecture, which harmoniously combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, reflecting the various phases of its construction between the 15th and 18th centuries.<\/p>\n The building occupies an entire city block and is distinguished by its two very different fa\u00e7ades. On the Hoogpoort side, visitors can admire an elegant Brabantine Gothic fa\u00e7ade richly decorated with sculptures and architectural details. On the Botermarkt side, the Renaissance architecture illustrates the evolution of artistic tastes during the period.<\/p>\n Over the centuries, City Hall served as the center of municipal power and the setting for numerous historic events. Among the most famous was the signing of the Pacification of Ghent in 1576, a major agreement in the history of the Spanish Netherlands, commemorated in the renowned Pacification Hall.<\/p>\n The interior houses several prestigious rooms, including the Throne Room, the Aldermen\u2019s Chapel, and the former City Council Chamber. These richly decorated spaces illustrate Ghent\u2019s political and economic importance during the period when it ranked among Europe\u2019s most prosperous cities.<\/p>\n Perched atop Blandijnberg Hill, Saint Peter\u2019s Abbey was founded in the 7th century by Saint Amand. This Benedictine abbey played a major role in the religious, cultural, and political development of Flanders for nearly a thousand years.<\/p>\n During the Middle Ages, the abbey was among the most influential institutions in the region. It owned vast estates, welcomed pilgrims from across Europe, and maintained close ties with the Counts of Flanders, several of whom were buried on the site. Its spiritual and intellectual influence reached its peak during the 11th and 12th centuries.<\/p>\n The abbey\u2019s history was nevertheless turbulent. Devastated during the Norman invasions and severely damaged during the Wars of Religion in the 16th century, it was rebuilt in the 17th century in an elegant Baroque style. The institution was ultimately dissolved in 1796 under the French Revolutionary administration.<\/p>\n Today, the restored buildings still testify to the grandeur of the former monastic complex. Visitors can admire the former cloisters, historic halls, and Saint Peter\u2019s Church, notable for its blend of Baroque and Classical architectural influences. The interior preserves numerous artworks, sculptures, and paintings inherited from the abbey\u2019s past.<\/p>\n Located near Citadel Park and the university district, Saint Peter\u2019s Abbey now hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and heritage activities.<\/p>\n Less famous than the renowned Castle of the Counts of Flanders, Gerard the Devil\u2019s Castle is nevertheless one of Ghent\u2019s most fascinating medieval buildings. Located along a former branch of the River Scheldt, this 13th-century fortress takes its name from Gerard of Ghent, a knight nicknamed \u201cGerard the Devil,\u201d who lived there during the latter part of the Middle Ages.<\/p>\n Built in the Scheldt Gothic style characteristic of the region, the structure impresses with its thick stone walls, turrets, and fortress-like appearance. Originally designed as both a noble residence and a defensive stronghold, it reflects Ghent\u2019s strategic importance during the feudal era.<\/p>\n Over the centuries, the building underwent numerous transformations and served a variety of purposes. It functioned as an armory, school, seminary, orphanage, psychiatric hospital, and even a fire station. More recently, it housed the Belgian State Archives until 2015.<\/p>\n The interior still preserves several remarkable medieval features, including a vast vaulted hall supported by columns made of Tournai stone. Although only part of the original castle survives today, the site retains an authentic charm that recalls the city\u2019s rich medieval heritage.<\/p>\n Located on Veldstraat, one of Ghent\u2019s main shopping streets, the d\u2019Hane-Steenhuyse Mansion is one of the finest 18th-century townhouses in Belgium. This elegant aristocratic residence reflects the refinement and wealth of Ghent\u2019s nobility during the Age of Enlightenment.<\/p>\n Built between 1768 and 1773 for the d\u2019Hane de Steenhuyse family, the palace harmoniously combines Louis XV, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles. Its discreet fa\u00e7ade conceals a sumptuous interior featuring richly decorated salons, refined reception rooms, and a spectacular Italian-style ballroom adorned with mirrors, paintings, and a grand ceremonial staircase.<\/p>\n The mansion hosted several prominent historical figures. In 1815, King Louis XVIII of France took refuge there during the Hundred Days, when Napoleon briefly returned to power. From this Ghent residence, the king even temporarily governed his administration in exile. Other distinguished visitors included Talleyrand, Tsar Alexander I of Russia, Chateaubriand, and King William I of the Netherlands.<\/p>\n The building\u2019s architecture is notable for its sophisticated layout. The reception rooms are connected in a continuous enfilade and complemented by discreet passageways once used by servants. At the rear, an elegant Louis XVI-style garden provides a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the city.<\/p>\n Now owned by the City of Ghent, the d\u2019Hane-Steenhuyse Mansion has undergone extensive restoration and stands as a valuable testament to aristocratic life during the 18th and 19th centuries.<\/p>\n Located in the heart of Citadel Park, the Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK) is one of the oldest museums in Belgium. Founded in the late 18th century, it now houses a remarkable collection covering more than six centuries of European art history, from the Middle Ages to the mid-20th century.<\/p>\n Housed in an elegant building inaugurated in the early 20th century, the museum offers a journey through around thirty rooms displaying nearly 350 works. The collections include paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and tapestries from the major European artistic schools.<\/p>\n The MSK is particularly renowned for its Flemish masterpieces. Visitors can admire works by Hieronymus Bosch, Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, Jacob Jordaens, James Ensor, and Th\u00e9o Van Rysselberghe. Hieronymus Bosch\u2019s famous painting Christ Carrying the Cross<\/em> is among the museum\u2019s most admired pieces.<\/p>\n The collections are not limited to Flemish art. The museum also presents works by major French artists such as Renoir, G\u00e9ricault, Millet, and Daumier, as well as Dutch, German, Italian, and Austrian painters. This diversity offers an exceptional overview of artistic evolution in Europe over the centuries.<\/p>\n Severely damaged during the Second World War, the museum was fully restored and modernized before reopening in the 21st century. Today, it is one of Ghent\u2019s leading cultural institutions and regularly hosts internationally renowned temporary exhibitions.<\/p>\n To understand Ghent beyond its monuments, a visit to STAM, the Ghent City Museum, is essential. Located on the remarkable historic Bijloke site, which combines a medieval abbey, a former convent, and a contemporary extension, the museum tells the fascinating story of the city from the Middle Ages to the present day.<\/p>\n Through interactive exhibitions, historical objects, models, and multimedia installations, STAM allows visitors to discover Ghent\u2019s evolution over the centuries. The museum explores the city\u2019s medieval past as well as its industrial, cultural, and university development, offering a complete view of Ghent\u2019s identity.<\/p>\n One of the museum\u2019s most popular attractions is undoubtedly its huge aerial photograph of Ghent, on which visitors can literally walk. This spectacular view allows you to explore the city in great detail and better understand its urban layout.<\/p>\n STAM also gives an important place to Ghent\u2019s future. Urban planning, architecture, mobility, sustainable development, and city projects are presented in an accessible and engaging way. The museum therefore does more than tell the past: it also invites visitors to reflect on the city of tomorrow.<\/p>\n The House of Alijn is housed in the former Children of Alijn Hospice, the last preserved example of a charitable almshouse in the city, and is dedicated to everyday life in the 20th century.<\/p>\n Through everyday objects, photographs, films, audio testimonies, and personal memories, the museum tells the story of ordinary people. Visitors discover the traditions, celebrations, family customs, and important moments that shaped the lives of several generations of Flemish people.<\/p>\n The House of Alijn offers a very human approach to history. From first baby photos to children\u2019s games, from summer holidays to first heartbreaks, the collections show how habits and lifestyles have changed over time while highlighting universal experiences.<\/p>\n The museum is especially popular with families thanks to its interactive activities for children. Younger visitors can explore the exhibitions in a playful way, handle certain objects, and take part in routes specially designed for them.<\/p>\n One of the museum\u2019s most emblematic places is its authentic popular Flemish caf\u00e9, where visitors can extend their discovery in a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. The historic inner garden also offers a peaceful space in the heart of the city.<\/p>\n The Dr. Guislain Museum is housed in Belgium\u2019s oldest psychiatric hospital, built in 1857, and is dedicated to the history of psychiatry and the evolution of society\u2019s perception of mental illness.<\/p>\n The museum is named after Dr. Joseph Guislain, a visionary physician who was among the first to advocate for more humane treatment of people with mental disorders. At a time when patients were often marginalized and mistreated, he believed they were entitled to respect, care, and dignity.<\/p>\n Founded in 1986, the museum\u2019s mission is to raise public awareness of mental health issues and combat prejudices surrounding psychological illness. Its permanent exhibition traces the history of psychiatry through medical objects, archival documents, testimonies, and works of art.<\/p>\n The Dr. Guislain Museum also invites visitors to reflect on the notion of normality. Through its collections and temporary exhibitions, it questions the boundaries between what is considered \u201cnormal\u201d and what is perceived as \u201cdifferent\u201d in society.<\/p>\n In addition to its historical interest, the museum regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions exploring themes of identity, perception, and the human condition. This combination of history, medicine, and artistic creation makes it a unique cultural venue in Belgium.<\/p>\n The Industry Museum traces the industrial history of Ghent, once one of Europe\u2019s leading textile cities. Housed in a former cotton mill near Vrijdagmarkt, it presents the evolution of production techniques and the social transformations brought about by the industrial revolutions.<\/p>\n The permanent exhibition \u201cPeople and Machines\u201d explains how steam and then electricity transformed work and daily life. It also highlights the working conditions of laborers, especially women, children, and the first migrant workers who arrived in the mid-20th century.<\/p>\n The museum preserves several remarkable historic machines, including an authentic \u201cMule Jenny,\u201d a spinning machine secretly introduced in 1798 by Lieven Bauwens. This invention played a major role in the development of Ghent\u2019s textile industry.<\/p>\n Other areas present the history of printing and textile manufacturing. Visitors can see presses, looms, and spinning machines still in operation, making the museum a true living museum.<\/p>\n Especially suitable for families, the museum offers interactive activities for children, such as creating mini-zines or creative workshops in the Tinker Studio. It provides a fun way to discover Ghent\u2019s industrial heritage.<\/p>\n Finally, from the upper floors of the former factory, visitors can enjoy a panorama over the city and its industrial past.<\/p>\n Ghent University Botanical Garden is a vast space for research, discovery, and relaxation located near Ghent-Saint-Peter\u2019s Station and Citadel Park. Created more than 220 years ago, it is an integral part of Ghent University and one of the most important botanical gardens in the country.<\/p>\n Covering 27,500 m\u00b2, it is home to more than 10,000 plant species from around the world. Visitors can discover ornamental, medicinal, food, and scientific plants, spread across the outdoor gardens and more than 4,000 m\u00b2 of tropical and subtropical greenhouses.<\/p>\n The garden includes several specialized areas, including an arboretum, a rock garden, a Mediterranean garden, and greenhouses dedicated to tropical, subtropical, and succulent plants. The indoor and outdoor ponds also host numerous aquatic species studied by researchers.<\/p>\n Among its most remarkable attractions are the giant water lilies in the Victoria greenhouse, banana trees, coffee plants, cocoa trees, papaya trees, and an impressive African baobab. These collections allow visitors to explore different climates and ecosystems without leaving Ghent.<\/p>\n The garden also plays a major scientific role. It preserves herbarium collections and a seed bank and serves as a living laboratory for university students and researchers. It therefore contributes to the study, conservation, and promotion of plant biodiversity.<\/p>\n Free to enter, Ghent Botanical Garden is now a haven of peace in the heart of the city, where science, nature, and heritage come together.<\/p>\n The Blaarmeersen sports and leisure park is one of Ghent\u2019s largest green spaces. Located near the rowing canal known as the Watersportbaan, it is a popular place for relaxation, sport, and leisure for both locals and visitors.<\/p>\n At the heart of the park lies a large lake surrounded by a sandy beach where swimming is possible during the summer season. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, windsurfing, fishing, and diving.<\/p>\n The site offers numerous sports facilities: football, rugby, tennis, and beach volleyball courts, an athletics track, mini-golf, a skatepark, orienteering routes, adventure courses, a climbing wall, and children\u2019s playgrounds. Thanks to this variety, Blaarmeersen is considered Ghent\u2019s main sports and leisure center.<\/p>\n Nature lovers can enjoy the walking paths that surround the lake and cross the park\u2019s green areas. The site is also a popular spot for picnics and family outings.<\/p>\n Blaarmeersen is also the starting point for guided canoe and kayak tours on the River Lys. These excursions allow visitors to discover both the green landscapes around Ghent and the historic city center from the water, especially during nighttime torch-lit tours.<\/p>\n Citadel Park is Ghent\u2019s largest urban park and one of the city\u2019s most popular green spaces. Located between the Lys and Scheldt rivers, it was laid out in 1875 on the site of a former Dutch citadel built between 1819 and 1831.<\/p>\n This military fortress, once considered one of the most modern in Europe, served successively as an infantry and artillery barracks before being dismantled to make way for the park. A few remains from this period, including casemates and a bunker dating from the Second World War, can still be seen today.<\/p>\n The park is renowned for its botanical richness. It contains around 1,300 trees, including several rare and remarkable species. Since 2005, information panels have allowed visitors to identify the trees and learn more about their history and characteristics.<\/p>\n Citadel Park also played an important role during the Ghent World\u2019s Fair of 1913. Several buildings constructed for the occasion still remain, including the famous Floralies Palace. The park was later redesigned in 1930 for the centenary of Belgian independence.<\/p>\n Art also plays an important role in the park. Visitors can find a statue of the painter \u00c9mile Claus, a major figure in Belgian Luminism. An elegant wrought-iron bandstand, designed in 1885 by Charles Van Rysselberghe, is also one of the site\u2019s emblematic features.<\/p>\n Its vast lawns, children\u2019s playground, and many walking paths attract families, students, and nature lovers alike.<\/p>\n Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen is one of the most important nature reserves on the outskirts of Ghent. Covering more than 220 hectares, this protected area offers a landscape of wet meadows, marshes, and aquatic zones characteristic of East Flanders.<\/p>\n The reserve is particularly renowned for its birdlife. Every year, thousands of migratory birds stop or nest here, making the site a privileged place for wildlife observation. Nature lovers often come equipped with binoculars to observe herons, ducks, birds of prey, and many other species.<\/p>\n Several marked trails allow visitors to explore the reserve on foot. The Meerskantpad is specially designed to be accessible to people with reduced mobility and visually impaired visitors, offering an inclusive nature experience.<\/p>\n Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen is also a popular place for walking, jogging, and nature photography. Its peaceful atmosphere contrasts sharply with the lively center of Ghent, located only a few kilometers away.<\/p>\n Its name comes from the Dutch word \u201czooien,\u201d meaning \u201cto boil.\u201d Originally, Waterzooi was prepared with freshwater fish caught in the rivers around Ghent.<\/p>\n The earliest recipes used eel, perch, and pike in particular. As the rivers became more polluted, fish was gradually replaced by chicken.<\/p>\n The dish consists of a broth enriched with cream and egg yolks, served with vegetables and meat or fish. Waterzooi was especially appreciated by Emperor Charles V.<\/p>\n Paling in \u2019t Groen is a traditional Flemish dish made with eel cooked in a green herb sauce. Its name literally means \u201ceel in green sauce.\u201d<\/p>\n The green sauce is prepared from a mixture of fresh herbs such as parsley, mint, tarragon, and sorrel. Pieces of eel are simmered directly in this fragrant sauce. The dish is usually served hot with bread or fries.<\/p>\n Cuberdons are traditional sweets closely associated with Ghent. Because of their cone shape, they are nicknamed \u201cneuzekes,\u201d or \u201clittle noses.\u201d<\/p>\n Cuberdons have a firm outer crust and a soft, syrupy center. Their traditional flavor is raspberry. One theory attributes their invention to the Ghent pharmacist De Vynck in 1873. Their limited shelf life explains why they are rarely exported outside Belgium.<\/p>\n Mastelles are traditional pastries from Ghent, recognizable by their round shape with a hollow in the center. They are flavored with cinnamon, which gives them their characteristic taste.<\/p>\n The name \u201cmastel\u201d probably comes from the old word \u201cmasteluin,\u201d a mixture of wheat and rye flour. One famous version is the \u201cgestreken mastel\u201d (\u201cironed mastel\u201d), cut in half, filled with butter and brown sugar, then flattened while hot. This traditional preparation is especially associated with the festivities of Ghent\u2019s Patershol district.<\/p>\n In the past, mastelles were blessed during the feast of Saint Hubert and eaten as symbolic protection against rabies.<\/p>\n Ganda Ham is a dry-cured ham and one of Ghent\u2019s most renowned gastronomic specialties.<\/p>\n Its name, \u201cGanda,\u201d comes from the ancient Celtic name for the city of Ghent. This ham is made using a traditional Flemish method of salting and maturation. The recipe is based on simple ingredients: high-quality Belgian pork and sea salt.<\/p>\n The production process lasts at least ten months in order to develop its characteristic flavor. The Ganda Ham brand was created in 1985, but the family business has been producing dry-cured ham since the 1950s.<\/p>\n Bruges is one of the most popular day trips from Ghent thanks to its remarkably well-preserved historic center. Bruges\u2019 historic canals, which once connected the city to the sea, contributed greatly to its commercial prosperity during the Middle Ages. The city is often nicknamed the \u201cVenice of the North\u201d because of its picturesque network of canals.<\/p>\n A stroll through its cobbled streets reveals medieval squares, Gothic buildings, and exceptional religious heritage. Visitors can explore Bruges by boat along the canals, on foot, by bike, or even by horse-drawn carriage. Must-see sights include the Markt, the Belfry, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.<\/p>\n Antwerp is Belgium\u2019s second-largest city and makes an excellent day trip from Ghent.<\/p>\n The city is world-famous for its diamond district, one of the most important diamond trading centers in the world. Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady is a Gothic masterpiece housing several works by the Flemish painter Rubens.<\/p>\n The Grote Markt, surrounded by historic guild houses, is the heart of the old town. Antwerp Central Station is often considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world.<\/p>\n The MAS Museum (Museum aan de Stroom) offers excellent exhibitions on the city\u2019s history as well as panoramic views over Antwerp. The city is also renowned for its major role in the world of fashion thanks to the famous \u201cAntwerp Six.\u201d<\/p>\n Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the main political center of the European Union.<\/p>\n Brussels\u2019 Grand Place is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is famous for iconic landmarks such as the Atomium and Manneken Pis.<\/p>\n Brussels is also renowned for its gastronomy, especially waffles, chocolates, and craft beers. Art lovers can visit many museums, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. The European Quarter offers visitors the chance to discover the major institutions of the European Union.<\/p>\n Ypres is a historic city in West Flanders, known worldwide for its role during the First World War.<\/p>\n The city was almost entirely destroyed during the war before being meticulously rebuilt. The majestic Cloth Hall (Lakenhalle) dominates the city center and now houses the In Flanders Fields Museum.<\/p>\n This museum traces the history of the fighting in Flanders and the human impact of the conflict. Every evening, the \u201cLast Post\u201d ceremony is held beneath the Menin Gate in tribute to missing soldiers. The area around Ypres contains numerous military cemeteries and war memorials visited by travelers from around the world.<\/p>\n Visiting Ghent<\/strong> means discovering one of Belgium\u2019s most captivating cities. Between its rich medieval heritage, iconic monuments, picturesque canals, fascinating museums, and local gastronomy, the capital of East Flanders offers a complete experience for every traveler.<\/p>\n Whether you love history, architecture, culture, or are simply looking for an authentic getaway, Ghent will charm you at every street corner. Easy to reach and pleasant to explore on foot, it is an essential destination for a weekend or a longer stay in Belgium.<\/p>\n If you are planning your trip, hesitate no longer: visiting Ghent means discovering a dynamic, elegant city full of surprises, where every district tells part of its fascinating story.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Visiting Ghent means discovering a Flemish city with a unique charm, where medieval history blends seamlessly with a modern and…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":6509,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"default","_kad_post_title":"default","_kad_post_layout":"default","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"default","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"default","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[255],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6585","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-belgium"],"yoast_head":"\nSaint Michael\u2019s Bridge<\/h3>\n
![\"Le](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/20110410_Gent_0032-1024x683.webp\")
<\/p>\nThe Cloth Hall<\/h3>\n
![\"La](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Belgie_-_Gent_-_Lakenhalle_-_02-1024x758.webp\")
<\/p>\nThe Belfry of Ghent<\/h3>\n
![\"Le](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Belfry_of_Ghent_DSCF0247DSCF0249-603x1024.webp\")
<\/p>\nSaint Nicholas\u2019 Church<\/h3>\n
![\"L'\u00c9glise](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gent_Sint-Niklaaskerk_R03-649x1024.webp\")
<\/p>\nKorenmarkt, the Vibrant Heart of Ghent<\/h3>\n
![\"Le](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Korenmarkt_Gent_-_panoramio-1024x522.webp\")
<\/p>\nGhent-Saint-Peter\u2019s Railway Station<\/h3>\n
![\"La](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Sint-Pietersstation-1024x682.webp\")
<\/p>\nVrijdagmarkt, Ghent\u2019s Historic Square<\/h3>\n
![\"Vrijdagmarkt\"](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gent_Vrijdagmarkt_Volkshuis_R01-1024x714.webp\")
<\/p>\nGraffiti Street<\/h3>\n
![\"Graffiti](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/53535372398_2f7c3196da_k-1024x768.webp\")
<\/p>\nGlass Alley<\/h3>\n
Saint Michael\u2019s Church<\/h3>\n
![\"L'\u00c9glise](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/image-1682786422N3N-683x1024.webp\")
<\/p>\nGhent City Hall<\/h3>\n
![\"L'H\u00f4tel](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gent_-_town_hall_2018-1024x687.webp\")
<\/p>\nSaint Peter\u2019s Abbey<\/h3>\n
![\"L'Abbaye](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gent_Sint-Pieterskerk-PM_35301.webp\")
<\/p>\nGerard the Devil\u2019s Castle<\/h3>\n
![\"Le](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Belgique_Gand_Chateau_Gerard_Le_Diable_-_panoramio-1024x768.webp\")
<\/p>\nThe d\u2019Hane-Steenhuyse Mansion<\/h3>\n
![\"L\u2019H\u00f4tel](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gent_-_Hotel_dHane-Steenhuyse_11-9-2016_11-18-09-1024x578.webp\")
<\/p>\nMust-See Museums in Ghent<\/strong><\/h2>\n
The Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK)<\/h3>\n
![\"Le](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/MSK19122008-1024x616.webp\")
<\/p>\nSTAM, Ghent City Museum<\/h3>\n
![\"Le](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gent_STAM_12-10-2010_10-33-23-1024x680.webp\")
<\/p>\nThe House of Alijn<\/h3>\n
![\"La](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Belgique_-_Gand_-_Maison_des_Sept_OEuvres_de_Misericorde_-_03-683x1024.webp\")
<\/p>\nDr. Guislain Museum<\/h3>\n
![\"Mus\u00e9e](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Ticket_dentree_Musee_Guislain_Gand_02-683x1024.webp\")
<\/p>\nIndustry Museum<\/h3>\n
![\"Mus\u00e9e](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/M.I.A.T._6_aug_2008-1024x618.webp\")
<\/p>\nParks and Green Spaces in Ghent<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Ghent University Botanical Garden<\/h3>\n
Blaarmeersen: Ghent\u2019s Large Leisure Park<\/h3>\n
![\"Blaarmeersen\"](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Blaarmeersen_24-05-2009_11-15-39-1024x686.webp\")
<\/p>\nCitadel Park<\/h3>\n
![\"Citadelpark\"](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gent_-_Citadelpark_-_Gate_2-1024x768.webp\")
<\/p>\nBourgoyen-Ossemeersen<\/h3>\n
![\"Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen\"](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Natuurreservaat_bourgoyen_ossemeersen1.webp\")
<\/p>\nGhent Gastronomy and Specialties<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Waterzooi<\/h3>\n
![\"Waterzooi\"](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/waterzooi_79743868-1024x768.webp\")
<\/p>\nPaling in \u2019t Groen<\/h3>\n
![\"Paling](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Paling_in_t_groen_Belgie_cropped.webp\")
<\/p>\nCuberdons<\/h3>\n
![\"Cuberdons\"](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/6_cuberdons-1024x590.webp\")
<\/p>\nMastelles<\/h3>\n
![\"Tarte](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Tarte_masteilles-1024x768.webp\")
<\/p>\nGanda Ham<\/h3>\n
Day Trips from Ghent<\/h2>\n
Bruges<\/h3>\n
![\"Grand-Place](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Brugge_Markt_R03-1024x665.webp\")
<\/p>\nAntwerp<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/anvers-1024x535.webp\")
<\/p>\nBrussels \u2014 About 30 Minutes from Ghent by Train<\/h3>\n
![\"La](\"https:\/\/www.parisenigmes.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/grande-place-brussels-1024x535.webp\")
<\/p>\nYpres (Ieper) \u2014 About 1 Hour 5 Minutes from Ghent by Train<\/h3>\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n