Torens-site

You are in the historical heart of Ghent. This is where it all began. Wherever you look you will see important, interesting and impressive buildings and monuments.

Depending on the time of day, first the Belfry and then the steeple of St Bavo's Cathedral will cast its shadow over the Sint-Baafsplein. In between lies the Royal Dutch Theatre, the permanent residence of the Ghent theatre company NTGent.

The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

[Sint-Baafskathedraal route ]

The Van Eyck brothers painted this unique altarpiece in 1432. It is the highlight of the Flemish Primitives and a milestone in art history.

Achtersikkel

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

[Achtersikkel route ]

It is difficult to believe, but less than fifty metres from bustling Sint-Baafsplein you will find an oasis of calm: the Achtersikkel.

The Belfry

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

[Belfort route ]

Above the Ghent skyline towers the Old Belfry, lonely and grey, an iconic symbol of the past. The dragon above searches the horizon, the Klokke Roeland warns the citizenry of approaching enemies. Recognised by Unesco as a World Heritage Site.

The Episcopal Palace

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

Behind the Castle of Gerald the Devil looms the imposing dome of...

Cinema Sphinx

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

At the eastern end of St Michael’s Bridge, you will find the place for ‘better’ cinema...

The Castle of Gerald the Devil

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

[Geeraard de Duivelsteen route ]

Despite the name and its grim appearance, the devil has never resided in this 13th-century fortress. Through..

Royal Dutch Theatre

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

[NTGent route ]

In the façade above the entrance, Apollo and his muses look out over the beautifully renovated Sint-Baafsplein, as you yourself can as you enjoy a bite or a drink on the terrace on the first floor.

Masons’ Guild Hall

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

A house from the 16th century with a 13th-century cellar. Atop the stepped gable six dancers spin merrily in the wind. You’ll find an exact copy on the Graslei, built for the World Exhibition of 1913.

St Bavo’s Cathedral

Historisch centrum/Torens-site

[Sint-Baafskathedraal route ]

A trove of art treasures: 22 altars (!), a Rococo pulpit in marble and oak and of course the exquisite highlight: ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ by the Van Eyck brothers.