Are you looking to explore the history of Ghent through the ages? There are a number of historical destinations in Ghent including the time-honored buildings, monuments, palaces, and parks where you can learn about the glorious past of Ghent. The presence of these historical sites and museums will take you on a walk through Ghent ‘s rich history.
If you are willing to have an in-depth historical information about Ghent, we recommend that you take a wonderful guided tour to cover the major historical attractions. Also, check the opening and closing time for each so that you can organize your time. Make sure that you go through the complete list of historical places in Ghent for a great trip!
Top Historical Places in Ghent
Let's witness the history of Ghent with these top historical places - monuments and landmarks:
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Gravensteen Castle
(2260 Votes)
Indomitable. That’s the first word in my head when I look at Gravensteen. With two metre thick walls, a medieval moat, a time worn look and a prominent position on the Ghent skyline, the castle of the counts overlooks the city like a stolid watcher. Philip of Alsace built the castle of stone in 1180 when he was between Crusades (there used to be three wooden fortifications on the spot bef...Read more -
St. Bavo's Cathedral
(1839 Votes)
In the crypt of this classic Gothic church you’ll find the Romanesque remains of the chapel around which the cathedral was built. Most of what you see was built through the 14th–16th centuries, including the choir, the radiating chapels, transepts and the tower. The main draw of the church however is the magnificent altarpiece The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. The painting has it&rs...Read more -
Belfort Van Gent
(2164 Votes)
Look up at the very top of this bell tower and you’ll see a dragon. That dragon keeps watch over Ghent and guards the municipal privileges of Ghent that are kept in the secrecy room. As far as the city’s identity goes, the 91 metre tall Belfry is probably the most important building in the city. From 1442 to 1869, the men of Ghent kept a shapr look out from the top for invaders and ...Read more -
Another historical neighbourhood, Patershol has been around for a while. It was a major cultural and religious centre in the Middle Ages, becoming a fashionable hangout during the modern era and then a slum in the 19th century. In the 20th century it was renovated and is now one of the chicest and most charming neighbourhoods in the city. The houses here dater from the 12th century; and you&rsq...Read more -
While the museum focuses on Flemish Art, there is quite a bit of extra regional artistic representation here too. There are a large number of sculptures; an extensive Medieval Ages collection; artwork from the Renaissance; the Netherland Baroque and Realism; and neo-classism, romanticism, expressionism and surrealism. Of course, there’s a smattering of contemporary art too. This variety n...Read more -
Museum Over Industrie, Arbeid En Textiel
(688 Votes)
Gent built its fortune on textiles in the medieval ages; t might be the only reason that the city prospered and survivied. In tribute to that legacy, they’ve built this museum on Gent’s primary industry and labour in the remains of an old and abandoned cotton mill. On;y 3% of the museums entire collection is on display. It focuses on both antique and modern gadgets that are in anywa...Read more -
Stam Gent City Museum
(424 Votes)
There is no single historical factor that influenced Gent more than others. The city has many layers to it’s identity it’s a cultural hotspot, a seaport, a student town and a historical destination. This city museum unveils these layers for the visitor. Over six rooms, the Story of Gent traces the medieval beginnings, the orthodox Early Modern Era, the Industrial Revolution to the p...Read more -
Gildenhuis Vrije Schippers
(1 Vote)
The city of Gent houses many historical buildings, and if you are also on a historical tour of the city, you should pay a visit to Gildenhuis van de Vrije Schippers. Located on the eastern side of the Leie, this historic building is one of the best preserved Guild houses in the country. The building was originally owned by the miller’s guild and later it was purchased by Free skippers in ...Read more