Once a prosperous trade centre of the medieval county of Flanders, Ghent boasts not only mesmerizing architecture like almost any other Belgian city but also a fascinating cultural cocktail that permeates into its spectacular landmarks and picturesque cityscapes, including the enchanting-looking Castle of the Counts hiding the ominous past of torturing medieval prisons, the nostalgic ambiance lingers in the medieval cobbled paths of the working-class Patershol Quarter, the UNESCO-recognized belfry attached to the Cloth Hall which was once full of activity in the 15th-century height of Flemish cloth trade, as well as the atmospheric Saint Michael's Bridge boasting picturesque views across the Wheat Quay and Grass Quay.
At the start of the tour, the fairytale-looking Gravensteen Castle, surrounded by a moat, reveals the sinister yet interesting past when Ghent’s medieval ruler, Counts of Flanders, used the site as a barbaric prison. Today, the most attractive icon of the city is still in a great preservation state and houses a unique museum of dungeons and torturing tools for which another visit to explore is highly recommended.
Continue to visit The House of Alijn in the cozy cobblestoned Patershol Quarter, which used to accommodate textile workers in the 15th century. The highlight of the museum which was once a hospice for sick children is not its exhibitions but a lovely courtyard garden and a typical working-class pub secluded behind a group of quaint houses, adding to the nostalgic beauty of the place.
Then, head to the true center of Ghent where its 14th-century City Hall prominently stands as the hub of the community witnessing historical events as well as important moments of its citizens. Its grand façade is a cocktail of architectural styles and laden with intricate details, most notably the sober sculptures of the Counts of Flanders.
You will make your own way to the meeting points