Ghent: A magical, medieval European city straight out of a fairytale that you must visit.

One of the most common questions before or during your visit to Brussels is: "Bruges or Ghent for a day trip?" Tourists choose Bruges, while locals recommend Ghent, saying it "deserves an entire weekend." When you arrive, the unique beauty and vibrancy of the medieval city will enchant you. Ghent, one of the oldest cities in Belgium, combines medieval character with modern life. A bike ride or boat trip will allow you to explore the city in depth and enjoy its charm.

Ghent is the capital and largest city of the province of East Flanders, the third largest in Belgium and the second in Flanders. It was founded around the 7th century at the confluence of the rivers Scheldt and Lys and became one of the richest cities in Northern Europe during the Middle Ages. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Ghent flourished due to its textile industry, and today it is a bustling city with an important port and a renowned university.

The historic center of Ghent is one of the most beautiful in Europe, with buildings that combine medieval and Renaissance architecture, which have been preserved and restored. This area is the largest in Belgium where car traffic is prohibited, thus maintaining the charm of the past.

In the city, you can explore various thematic museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Modern Art, as well as enjoy performances in theaters and the opera.

Ghent: Attractions and Museums Worth Visiting in the Medieval City

Castle of the Counts
The Castle of the Counts is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ghent. This impressive castle, with its rich and turbulent past, is directly linked to the political and social history of the region. It is the only medieval castle in Flanders that features a moat and largely preserved defensive elements.

During your visit to the Castle of the Counts, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of 12th-century culture, as the gate, the guardhouse, the count's residence, and the stables are accessible to visitors.

St. Bavo's Cathedral
One of the most impressive monuments in Ghent and the oldest parish church in the city center. Its location has a history dating back to the 10th century, along with a Romanesque church built in the 12th century, dedicated to St. John the Baptist. During the Middle Ages, Ghent was a wealthy and powerful city with the resources to build increasingly grand churches. Thus, the church of St. John the Baptist was transformed, in the 15th and 16th centuries, into the impressive Gothic St. Bavo's Cathedral.

Ghent's Belfry
The Belfry of Ghent, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undeniably worth a visit. In 1402, the city's privileges were kept in a chest that was stored in the belfry's vault. The dragon, which has adorned the tower since 1377, watches over the city and serves as the symbolic guardian of the belfry.

Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is the oldest museum in Belgium, with an impressive and diverse collection of artworks. According to the museum's brochure, "no other museum has managed to combine the old masters with modernists as harmoniously as here in this iconic building."

STAM: Ghent City Museum
STAM tells the story of Ghent from the medieval era to the present day, with original collections and interactive media. It presents the past, present, and future of the city in an exciting and understandable way, capturing the transition from a medieval metropolis to a modern city of knowledge and culture.

One of the most striking features of STAM is a giant aerial photograph of Ghent, where visitors can explore. With the help of a multimedia app, you can discover the city across four different centuries.

Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede
Stijn Vandenbouhede, a renowned chocolatier, has his shop in the heart of Ghent, on Mageleinstraat. The open workshop allows visitors to observe the chocolate-making process and taste unique flavors, as well as admire impressive chocolate creations.

The Belfry of Ghent
The Belfry of Ghent, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undeniably worth a visit. In 1402, the city's privileges were kept in a chest, which was stored in the safe of the belfry. The dragon, which has adorned the tower since 1377, watched over the city and served as the symbolic guardian of the belfry.

Food and Drink Options

Cassis
At Vrijdagmarkt, Cassis is known for its meat dishes, but it also offers fish and vegetarian options. The menu is updated every three months to reflect seasonal ingredients.

Barque à Jack
It enjoys a beautiful location on the banks of the Lys River, with stunning views from the terrace. The menu includes cocktails, oysters, Iberico ribs, and sharing plates, as well as desserts like warm waffles.

De Grill
Located on Korenlei, De Grill is a family-run establishment serving grilled dishes and local specialties. The interior features an open kitchen, and the terrace offers views of Graslei and the river.

The information was sourced from: iefimerida

https://www.iefimerida.gr/travel/gandi-mesaioniki-poli-apodraseis-exoteriko