[2025 Ghent Attraction] Travel Guide for Saint Bavo's Cathedral (Updated Apr)

#europetrip Ghent, a picturesque city in Belgium, is renowned for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Located in the Flanders region, it boasts well-preserved historical buildings, including the Gravensteen Castle and the stunning St. Bavo's Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece. The city is crisscrossed by scenic canals and features a lively town center with bustling markets, cafes, and shops. Known for its rich history, dynamic arts scene, and annual festivals like the Gentse Feesten, Ghent combines historical charm with modern vibrancy, making it a compelling destination for visitors.

These very expressive angels is part of the well known Ghent Altarpiece ( The Adoration of Mystic Lamb) at the Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. The impressive altarpiece measures 5.2 x 3.75m, and is painted by Hubert and Jan can Eyck in the 15th century. It is considered to be one of the greatest masterpiece in Belgium. As for the gothic cathedral which stands at 89m tall, it is the seat of the Diocese of Ghent, and took nearly 3 centuries to complete. It is free to visit the cathedral but requires separate ticket to see the altarpiece. #cityexplorer #history #art #belgium #ghent

#HotOverseasPlaces Ghent, Belgium, is a beautiful city where history and culture live on. Located in Flanders, it is the third largest city in Belgium, and is an attractive city that blends modern art and vibrant urban culture while retaining strong traces of the Middle Ages. 🏰 Historical streets Walking through the streets of Ghent, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Middle Ages. In particular, the old town is filled with magnificent Gothic architecture and cobblestone alleys, allowing you to experience a historic atmosphere. 📍 Saint Bavo’s Cathedral This magnificent Gothic cathedral displays Jan van Eyck’s masterpiece, The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. If you love paintings, you will want to visit this world-famous piece at least once. 📍 Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts of Flanders) A medieval fortress built in the 12th century, it is a mysterious spot where the walls and torture devices remain. From the castle tower, you can get a panoramic view of the beautiful cityscape of Ghent. 📍 Belfry of Ghent A 91m-tall bell tower that is also registered as a World Heritage Site. If you climb this tower, you can enjoy the view of Ghent's canals and beautiful rooftops. 🌊 Fantastic scenery along the canal Ghent is also famous for the fantastic scenery created by the canals. 🚶 Stroll along the canal (Graslei & Korenlei) The cobblestone streets "Graslei" and "Korenlei" that run along the canal are truly photogenic spots. The historic buildings and the scenery reflected on the water surface are beautiful, creating a landscape that is like a painting. ⛵ Boat tour A canal cruise will let you enjoy the beautiful cityscape of Ghent, where history and modern art blend together, from the water. 🌃 Night illumination At night, the buildings along the canal are lit up, creating a romantic atmosphere. The night view from **St. Michael's Bridge** is especially a must-see! 🎉 Ghent's vibrant culture and cuisine Ghent is a vibrant city where art, music and food culture blend together. 🎭 Ghent Festival Held every July, this is one of Belgium's largest festivals. For 10 days, the whole city is bustling with music, theater and street performances! 🍽 Ghent cuisine • Waterzooi: A traditional dish of fish and chicken in a creamy soup. • Belgian Beer: Ghent has many craft beer breweries, so you can enjoy the local flavor. • Waffles & Chocolate: Don't miss out on the sweets that are unique to Belgium! 🌟 Summary: The charm of Ghent ✅ Architecture and culture that evoke medieval history ✅ Romantic scenery along the canals ✅ A lively city bustling with art and festivals ✅ Belgian cuisine and beer Ghent is a fascinating city where history and modern culture blend together. Why not enjoy Belgium's history and beautiful scenery while taking a leisurely stroll along the canals?

Friends! I've found a gem! Ghent (Ghent), this under-the-radar medieval city in Belgium, is the ultimate European city walk! Canals reflect Gothic spires, castles hide ancient passageways, and even the tram tracks seem like threads through time! After a full day of exploring, I've compiled the ultimate itinerary. Every photo you take will look like a scene from "Game of Thrones"! Must-See Medieval Checklist: The "Big Three" Church Tour - St. Bavo Cathedral: Home to the mysterious 15th-century painting, "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb." Sunlight streams through stained-glass windows onto stone carvings, making even breathing feel sacred! Don't miss the Roman ruins in the basement. - St. Nicholas' Church: The blue-gray stone facade is unique! Gothic spires pierce the sky, and the side door is filled with detailed carvings of biblical stories. - Ghent Belfry: Climb 91 meters for a panoramic city view! Red brick roofs and canals intertwine like a medieval chessboard. Take the elevator to save your legs (the €3 entry fee is a steal). A Day Trip Through the Count's Dark Castle - Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts): Step into one of Europe's best-preserved medieval castles. The torture chamber and armory are eerily captivating. The panoramic canal view from the top is breathtaking! I recommend wearing a long, vintage dress to capture cinematic shots on the stairwells. Romance on the "Venice" of the Canals - Graslei (Grass Quay): Belgium's most beautiful scenery! Medieval guildhalls are reflected in the water. At dusk, the entire river surface is gilded. Take a €6 boat tour and listen to the captain recount the glorious history of the fish market. - St. Michael's Bridge: A stone bridge with pointed church spires on both banks. Crouch low in the center of the bridge for the perfect photo op – instant medieval postcard! Ghent's Culinary Delights - "Hell's Kitchen"-worthy cuisine: - De Gekroonde Hoofden: A medieval cellar restaurant! Order the mussels in white wine sauce with Belgian fries and garlic aioli. Around €20 per person for a satisfying meal. - 't Klokhuys: A local favorite for ribs. The sweet and spicy honey glaze is addictive – you'll want to lick the bones clean! - Dark Dessert: Visit Chocolaterie Van Hoorebeke next to St. Bavo Cathedral and try the "medieval herb chocolate." Bittersweet, like swallowing the entire Renaissance! Friends, Ghent is Europe's hidden treasure!!

Ghent is a super charming city in Belgium, combining medieval charm with modern vitality. There are spectacular ancient buildings here, such as St. Bavo's Cathedral (which houses the famous "Mystic Lamb" altarpiece), Gravenstine Castle, and the photo-worthy bell tower. The small bars and leisurely cafes along the canal make the whole city romantic and a bit literary. Moreover, Ghent is a great place to explore by bicycle, which is environmentally friendly and convenient, and is definitely worth a visit! #Belgium #Europe #Ghent #Middle Ages #Literature

#newyearnewtrip Saint Bavo’s Cathedral (or Sint-Baafskathedraal) is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in Ghent, Belgium. The Gothic architecture of the cathedral is absolutely breathtaking, featuring tall, pointed arches, flying buttresses, and vaulted ceilings that give the interior a sense of grandeur and spiritual elevation. The cathedral's tower, which reaches 89 meters (292 feet) high, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Ghent and is an excellent spot for panoramic views of the city.

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 Saint Bavo's Cathedral, located in the center of Ghent, Belgium, is a magnificent church with rich history and artistic treasures. Famous for its preserved Ghent Altarpiece, the church attracts tourists and art lovers from all over the world. St. Bavo's Cathedral dates back to the early 10th century and was originally a Romanesque church. Over time, the church has undergone several reconstructions and expansions, gradually evolving into the magnificent building it is today that combines Gothic and Baroque styles. The church's towering bell tower and exquisite stained glass windows showcase the essence of medieval European architectural art. The most eye-catching work inside the church is the Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece created by brothers Jan van Eyck and Hubert van Eyck, and one of the most important works of art during the Northern Renaissance. Noted for its meticulous depiction and rich religious symbolism, the Ghent Altarpiece consists of 12 separate panels that illustrate the Christian story of redemption. The central part of the altarpiece is a painting called The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, which depicts the scene of believers from all walks of life worshiping the Lamb of God, full of a sacred and solemn atmosphere. In addition to the Ghent Altarpiece, St. Bavo's Cathedral houses many other precious works of art and religious relics. The church's altar, pulpit and sculptures all demonstrate extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic value. Every detail makes people feel the perfect combination of faith and art. When visiting St. Bavo's Cathedral, you can not only appreciate outstanding works of art, but also feel the strong historical atmosphere. The tranquility and sacredness in the church make people ponder and meditate, and experience peace and tranquility of mind. Whether you are a religious believer or an art lover, you can find your own spiritual resonance here. The city of Ghent is even more dazzling because of the presence of St. Bavo's Cathedral. As you stroll through this medieval city, be sure to visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral to experience the intersection of history and art and discover your own Ghent story.

#getgoing2025 We visited this amazing stunning cathedral in Ghent. Saint Bavo's Cathedral, or Sint-Baafskathedraal, is a remarkable architectural gem in Ghent, Belgium, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its construction began in the 10th century, evolving over several centuries, with significant additions completed in the 16th century. The cathedral is renowned for housing the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a masterwork by Jan and Hubert Van Eyck, considered one of the most important pieces of Northern Renaissance art. Visitors like us are captivated by the stunning stained-glass windows that narrate biblical stories and the intricate altars adorning its chapels. The cathedral’s bell tower, standing at 91 meters, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers breathtaking views of the city. Additionally, Saint Bavo's is a center for cultural events and concerts, making it a vibrant hub of both spiritual and artistic significance in Ghent, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Definitely visit this cathedral when in Ghent❤️ #xmastrip #xmas2024 #myhiddengems #summervacation #freehotelstay #familytrip #localguides #europe #historicallandmarks #mytravelhacks #passionpassport #awesomepic #urbanexplorer #belgium #foodie #asiatrip #mustdo #food #trip

The best-preserved medieval garden in Europe—Ghent Ghent, Belgium, is a charming city with a long history. Although relatively small, it has a rich history. During the Middle Ages, it was the second most prosperous city in Europe after Paris, with stunning scenery. I would call it the most beautiful city in Belgium, and I can't help but recommend it! ~ Visa: Schengen Visa 📍About Ghent: Ghent is the second largest city in the province of Flanders, Belgium, located at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers. In the Middle Ages, it was a famous city-state. It has preserved a large number of magnificent medieval buildings in its urban area and is known as the "best-preserved medieval garden in Europe." ~ Most of Ghent's attractions are concentrated in the city center. If you take the train from Brussels, get off at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, and then take bus 1 or 2 to the city center! 🔥Must-see attractions 📍St. Bavo's Cathedral This Gothic cathedral, built of white stone, has a tower 89 meters high and was built in the 16th century. It is a perfect combination of Romanticism and Gothic style and is world-famous for its collection of many masterpieces of painting. ⏰Opening hours: 8:30 am–6 pm 📍Belfry Located opposite St. Bavo's Cathedral, it is a symbol of Ghent's independence. You can climb the stone tower to see this medieval town. The belfry has an elevator service, and you can take the elevator to the top of the tower to overlook the entire city of Ghent. The belfry is also equipped with a carillon of 52 bells, which plays melodious music for the town every day. ⏰Opening hours: 10 am–6 pm 📍St. Nicholas' Church Not far from the belfry is St. Nicholas' Church. The interior of the church is solemn and is a typical Gothic building. To the south of St. Nicholas' Church is a particularly eye-catching building with six statues of dancers in strange costumes on the roof, which is very peculiar. ⏰Opening hours: 9 am–4 pm 📍1898 Post Office The century-old building opposite St. Nicholas' Church—the 1898 Post Office—is a magnificent building. The most famous feature of the post office's exterior wall is a circle of 24 busts of celebrities, mainly heads of state, presidents, kings, or emperors of Europe and some Eastern countries. 📍St. Michael's Bridge St. Michael's Bridge is in the center of Ghent and is considered the most beautiful and romantic place in the city. The arched stone bridge with its quaint street lamps makes the city look beautiful just by standing on the bridge and looking around. Compared to the freshness of the day, the night view of St. Michael's Bridge is even more stunning, so don't miss it. 📍Gravensteen Originally built to resist pirate invasions, it was once used as a prison, court, and mint. The castle is now a museum open to the public. ⏰Opening hours: 10 am–6 pm The beautiful city of Ghent will let you truly experience what leisure is all about. Don't hesitate any longer, go to Ghent!

Ghent is a charming medieval city in Belgium, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and picturesque canals. Among these are the many beautiful churches and cathedrals. Must-see churches and cathedrals: 1. Saint Bavo's Cathedral Highlights - This cathedral is home to the famous altarpiece "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" and had a unique blend of architectural styles. 2. Saint Nicholas' Church Highlights - This church in Ghent is a great example of Gothic architecture, known for the intricate stonework. The interior of the church is really impressive. 3. Belfry of Ghent Highlights - Belfry of Ghent is a striking medieval tower, it is a UNESCO site and a bell tower, which you can climb up to get panoramic views of Ghent's historic skyline. #churches #europetrip #europeanarchitecture #100waysoftravel #photolocation

St. Bavo's Cathedral The church is open to the public for free, but if you want to admire the "Ghent Altarpiece" (the theme is the prayer and praise of God's love for Jesus who sacrificed himself to save mankind), you need to pay €16. With VR glasses, you can reproduce the church and the life of believers at that time. There are also lockers for tourists to store their belongings.

Saint Bavo's Cathedral (Dutch: Sint Baafskathedraal) is a Roman Catholic church located in Ghent, Belgium. The cathedral was originally a wooden structure known as the Church of Saint John the Baptist. In the 11th century, the wooden church was rebuilt in Romanesque style, and then gradually expanded into Gothic style from the 14th to the 16th century. It was renamed Saint Bavo's Church in the 16th century when the monks of the Saint Bavo Abbey moved there. Later, it became the cathedral of the Ghent diocese. The cathedral is famous for the Ghent Altarpiece, officially known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, named after the central panel of the lower part of the altarpiece. This work was completed by Jan van Eyck and is one of the most important works of the early Northern Renaissance. The interior of the church retains the natural color of red bricks. The nave mixes Gothic columns and ribbed vaults, ornate altars and screens, numerous lifelike statues and paintings. Most striking are the numerous exquisite and beautiful stained glass windows. My association with Belgium is always the low-hanging clouds and the long drizzle, and the Gothic churches here echo this environment. Fortunately, with these colorful stained glass windows, the solemn and gloomy atmosphere inside the cold stone walls of the church seems to be lessened a bit.

You definitely do not want to miss getting to know this mesmerizing city in Belgium! Highlights are St. Bavo's Cathedral with the Ghent Altarpiece, the belfry, the Gravensteen castle, and the splendid architecture along the old Graslei harbour. The beauty of the place lies in the historic cobblestones, old buildings, and traditional shops. It's easy to get around and has unique historical buildings and picturesque views. The tourist-oriented attractions are mixed with a local flavor that makes Ghent feel real and laid-back—the kind of place you'd like to hang out for a while. 🎟️ Gravensteen Castle €12 - very worth the visit! With a guided audio tour, you can travel back in time and learn so much about the Belgian history and culture! Walking freely around the castle brings the feeling of being in a storybook, and you can get a beautiful view of the city from the top of the tower! #ghent #Gravensteen #belgium

Founded in the 12th century The St. Baf Cathedral, built in the 16th century, is a perfect blend of romanticism, early and late Gothic style, and is famous for its collection of masterpieces. The three-fold painting "Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" placed in the side hall on the left side of the gate is the treasure of the church. The St. Buff Cathedral was built on the basis of the Chapel of St. Johnthe Baptist, where the St. John the Baptist was just a wooden building built in 942. . The original architectural remains of the chapel are still visible from the basement of St. Barthes Cathedral. The chapel was converted into a Romanesque style in 1038, and the historical traces of this expansion can also be found in the basement of the church. During the period from the 14th to the 16th century, the church was continuously expanded and remodeled and eventually converted into a Gothic-style building. New choir seats, the extended church wing, the central corridor and the ancient tower to the west of the church were built during this period. On June 7, 1569, the construction of St. Baf's Cathedral was completed. 1539, the old old St. Baf Abbey was disbanded due to the rebellion of Charles V.