Ghent a medieval muse

Stepping into history, where everywhere you look is a frame, and every street you visit unfolds with a story, the City is called Ghent, Belgium's one of the most well-kept secrets. This picturesque City, a cultural maven and architectural dream, is nestled in the Flemish Region of Belgium, about 50 km northwest of Brussels and 240km from Amsterdam.

It is the most well-preserved medieval City with a modern take on environmental friendliness. It emphasizes that vehicles with low emissions and pollution are prohibited in the City center.

You can do multiple things in the City that have been generously offered. Here is my list.

1. Visit Gravensteen Castle or Castle of the Counts, the silent sentinel of the City, built in 1180. It was the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353 and served as a prison and a cotton factory. Today, it is turned into a museum, a large fortress, and a significant landmark nestled in the nook of the canals. On top of the castle, you have a 360 ° view of the breathtaking allure of Ghent.

To visit this castle, you can purchase the ticket on the spot or earlier online. The audio tour comes with the purchase of the ticket. It has a touch of humor, which makes it more interesting.

2. St. Bavo's Cathedral  - Testimony of the City's rich religious heritage and prolific past, and the home of the famous Ghent Altarpiece, also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, by Jan and Hubert van Eyck. It was completed in 1432 and is one of the most prominent artworks of the Northern Renaissance. This cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic grandeur with an intriguing history and opulent architecture. Soaring ceilings and intricate stained glass windows make you feel you are walking through history with a new experience.   

 

3. Soak in the breathtaking views of the Garslei and Kornlei. Located opposite each other, the two quays of the Leie River have hosted ships for over 1,000 years and were part of the medieval port. A lively atmosphere, with beautiful eateries, breathtaking views of stunning architectural riots, beautiful facades, and ornate details. Watching boats glide by is a treat

4. Saint Michael's Bridge: A stone arch bridge, one of the most picturesque and interesting positions, offers a breathtaking view of St Nicholas' Church (Sint Niklaaskerk), the Belfry of Ghent, and St Bavo's Cathedral, making it a unique vantage point for this historic City. Ghent's one of the most scenic locations to get stunning views of Graslei and Korenlei, which is surely unmissable.  

6. Explore Patershol - the City's medieval quarter, featuring winding cobblestone streets, unique characteristic architecture, quaint souvenir shops, and charming canal views, all of which make it the prettiest of all.

8. Lost in winding lanes and quaint Markets, wander around cobblestone streets and let the City reveal or unfold itself. Savor coffee in the used bookstore or marvel at the unique and beautiful architecture.

A place that you not just visit, but with a promise of returning.