Together, the cobble stone streets and the towering Gothic architecture make sleepy Gent a treasure of a town.
The celebrated Gent Altarpiece is housed within St. Baafskathedraal. The church interior features a vaulted ceiling about five storeys tall.
Also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, Jan Van Eyck and his brother Hubert completed the imposing altarpiece in 1432. No photos are allowed in order to protect the piece and it is displayed in a temperature controlled, dimly lit room full of tourists listening to audio guides detailing the rich iconography and symbolism.
The Gent Belfry, built in the 1300s, is a recognizable landmark in the town's skyline. The dragon weathervane at the top has become a famous Gent symbol.
Cafes and shops line either side of the Korenmarkt, the central square.
Canals bisect Gent and there are several bridges from which to admire the views.
Gent seems to be overshadowed by Brugge as far as tourism in Belgium, and that's fine by me to keep Gent a charmingly quiet town.
