Weekend in Ghent, Belgium

Korenmarkt Ghent, Belgium

Last weekend I went to Ghent, Belgium with a girl friend of mine. Our goal was to go shopping for one day and to spend the other day in a cultural way. We succeeded in our mission even though we came unprepared and didn't know anything about the city.
Below is an impression of genteel Ghent, a beautiful and old city in Belgium.

folks leisurely at the Leie

The building behind the people is the Old Butcher's Hall. This building dates back to the 15th century when meat markets were indoor market places in order to control the freshness and quality of the meat. It is situated at the Groentemarkt (Vegetable market).

old and new gables

These old buildings are located next to the Cloth Hall or Lakenhal. The modern building on the right is the new City Hall. I love how the city combines old with new.

reflection of ducks in the river

old little street

reflection of a red house in the Lieve

vintage teacup

Ghent has ample places for coffee, lunch and dinner. The picture above is taken at Café Van den Hoek af which was located opposite our Bread & Breakfast Faja Lobi. Prices in Ghent are cheaper than in Holland and the service was very friendly at everyplace we went.

window at the Design Museum Gent

The Design Museum Gent is worthwhile a visit. It is a cultural institution of the City of Ghent and it showcases furniture, paintings and sculptures from the Renaissance up to now. The emphasis in the collections and exhibitions lies on 20th century and current design. We loved every minute of our visit. Again this was a fabulous combination between old and new. 

coffee at the True Beans

Belfry

The Belfry is the proudest symbol of the city's independence. The Cloth Hall was built on the side of the Gothic Belfry. At the corner of the Cloth Hall is an old jailer's lodge.

Gravensteen / Castle of the Counts

From the 10th - 14th century this castle was home to the counts of Flanders. The oldest medieval buildings were made of wood and originate from the 10th century. Philip of Alsace had the castle rebuilt around 1180. It is still quite imposing and delightful to visit.
Three of our favorite shops were: Zoot Shoe Boutique for their excellent selection of shoes, Huiszwaluw for a lovely selection of interior design and giftshop Au bon Marché (no website, address: Hoornstraat 4)
Our conclusion was that Ghent is a wonderful town to spend the weekend. We'd love to come here again.


See also:
Jesus, Maria and other figurines in Ghent
Doors and windows of Ghent