Ghent
About this Place
Ghent (Gent) stands at the confluence of the rivers Lys and Scheldt and is the capital of East Flanders. Between the eleventh and sixteenth centuries, it grew into one of Europe’s largest and most prosperous cities, its wealth founded principally on the cloth trade. Its powerful merchants and guilds also established a lasting tradition of civic independence.
Today, Ghent combines a remarkably intact medieval centre with the energy of a university city, an important port and a thriving cultural life. The Castle of the Counts, the Belfry and the towers of St Bavo’s Cathedral dominate a cityscape shaped by canals, quays and imposing guild houses.
Ghent was a centre of brewing for centuries, and its historic centre once contained numerous breweries. Brewing has since returned to the city through businesses including Gruut, Dok Brewing Company, Stadsbrouwerij Artevelde and Stroom. Together with Ghent’s specialist beer cafés, these make the city significant to the Museum as both a historic brewing centre and a lively part of Belgium’s contemporary beer culture.
Visitor notes
Ghent’s compact historic centre is especially rewarding on foot or from the water. Highlights include the Castle of the Counts, the Belfry, St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Ghent Altarpiece, together with the guild houses lining the Graslei and Korenlei. The city’s rivers and canals are integral to its character, making a boat tour an excellent way to understand its layout and history.
Dog-friendly
Ghent is generally welcoming to dogs, including at numerous cafés, restaurants and places to stay, although individual policies should always be checked.