Ghent, Belgium: A Medieval Fairy Tale City Interwoven with Art

Ghent , this medieval ancient city surrounded by canals, is a treasure kept private by Belgians. The colorful houses by the canals, spired churches, and street graffiti collide to create a unique artistic atmosphere, as if it were a "living European picture book." 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions 1️⃣ St. Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal) - This is a pilgrimage site for art lovers, housing the Ghent Altarpiece (also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb) by the Van Eyck brothers, acclaimed as "the world's first oil painting." After nine years of restoration, it returned to the cathedral, with details so stunning they take your breath away. The polyptych structure and religious narrative of the altarpiece are considered a miracle in the history of art. - Tips: The cathedral is free to enter, but tickets are required for the altarpiece. Some of the restored paintings can be viewed at the Ghent Museum of Fine Arts. 2️⃣ Gravensteen Castle - This medieval castle, surrounded by a moat, once served as a count's residence, court, and prison. It displays eerie torture devices and a guillotine, and offers a panoramic view of Ghent from the top. The castle entrance fee is 13 euros. 3️⃣ Belfry of Ghent - A 91-meter-tall city landmark, from the top you can hear the chimes of 52 bells and overlook the medieval streets crisscrossed by canals. There is an elevator to the top, and the entrance fee is 8 euros. 4️⃣ Sint-Michielsbrug and Graslei - The most picturesque spot in Ghent! Standing on the bridge, you can capture the "three towers in one frame" of St. Bavo's Cathedral, the Belfry, and St. Nicholas' Church. The colorful, gabled buildings along the riverbanks were once the headquarters of medieval guilds, reflecting in the canal like a tranquil oil painting, especially stunning at sunset and night. 🌟🌟⭐ The train from Brussels to Ghent takes only half an hour. If you have enough time, it's recommended to stay in Ghent for an extra day, order a cup of coffee by the Graslei in the afternoon, and let your body and soul relax. The slow-paced Ghent heals the soul! #Ghent #GhentBelgium #Medieval #EuropeTravel