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Saint Peter's Abbey

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—°10
Saint Peter's Abbey (Belgium)

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Saint Peter's Abbey in Ghent was founded in the 7th century by Saint Amandus and grew to become one of the wealthiest and most influential Benedictine monasteries in medieval Flanders. Located on the Blandijnberg, the highest point in the city, the abbey served for centuries as a vital center of learning and religious authority. The current buildings mostly date from the 17th and 18th centuries, showcasing imposing Baroque architecture following the destruction of the original medieval structures during the Wars of Religion. A highlight of the complex is the abbey church, featuring a monumental dome and a magnificent interior. The estate also includes an idyllic terraced garden with its own vineyard, a nod to the agricultural traditions of the monks. Today, the abbey functions as a major cultural center hosting various exhibitions and providing deep insights into Ghent's spiritual history. The expansive cloisters and the refectory still convey the former grandeur and solemnity of monastic life.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C3361013161818151174
Rain mm696055385964768157677379

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The former Benedictine abbey of Saint Peter in Ghent now serves as an exhibition center. The complex with its historic cloister is accessible to visitors even when no exhibition is running.
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Typical hours
The outdoor area and cloister are typically accessible during the day. Exhibition halls have varying hours depending on the event calendar.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the cloister and outdoor area. In exhibition halls, restrictions may apply, especially for loaned items.
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Time needed
Allow about one hour for the cloister and grounds. Add another hour if there is an exhibition.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby St. Bavo's Abbey and the city center of Ghent. St. Bavo's Cathedral is just a short walk away.
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Getting there
The abbey is located in southern Ghent, accessible by tram line 1 (stop 'Sint-Pietersstation'). It is about a five-minute walk from the main station.
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Insider tip
Check online ahead of time for current exhibitions, as they may affect access to certain areas. The cloister is especially welcoming in spring.

Geography

Coordinates
51.04140, 3.72750

Facts

  • The abbey was founded around the year 630 by Saint Amandus.
  • In the 10th century, it was the burial place for the Counts of Flanders.
  • The current Baroque church was constructed between 1629 and 1722.
  • The abbey is situated on the Blandijnberg, Ghent's highest point at 28 meters.
  • The terraced garden features a vineyard that continues to produce wine today.
  • Following the French Revolution, the abbey was temporarily used as an army barrack.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ghent University Botanical GardenGhent University Botanical Garden<1 km · SExplore →
St. Bavo's CathedralSt. Bavo's Cathedral1 km · NExplore →
Flemish ValleyFlemish Valley2 km · NWExplore →
Bourgoyen-OssemeersenBourgoyen-Ossemeersen4 km · NWExplore →
EvergemEvergem8 km · NExplore →
LochristiLochristi9 km · NEExplore →
Evergem Port ZoneEvergem Port Zone10 km · NExplore →
Ooidonk CastleOoidonk Castle11 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Saint Peter's Abbey (10)

De Wereld van Kina🏛 museum

Nature museum for children and young people in Ghent, with interactive exhibits.

🕒 Mo-Fr 09:00-17:00; Su,PH 14:00-17:30; Sa off💶

Kunsthal Sint-Pietersabdij🏛 museum

Museum in Belgium, exhibition space in the former St. Peter's Abbey in Ghent.

Ruïnetuin

Ruins garden in Ghent, remains of historic buildings.

Muinkbrug

Bridge in Ghent, Belgium, over the Muinkschelde canal.

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Sint-Pieterskerk

Church in Ghent, Belgium, dedicated to Our Lady and Saint Peter.

Kelders en ondergrondse tunnel

Underground cellars and tunnel in Ghent, historic vaults.

Sint-Kwintenskapel

Chapel in Ghent, Belgium, dedicated to Saint Quentin.

Boekentoren🗼 tower

Library building in Ghent, Belgium, distinctive tower of the university library.

Museum of Fine Arts🏛 museum

Museum of fine arts in Ghent, Belgium, with old and modern art.

Poortgebouw Courtine 1-2

Entrance gate of the citadel in Ghent, historic gatehouse.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can you visit at the abbey?
You can visit the cloisters, the refectory, the garden, and temporary exhibitions.
Is the garden open to the public?
Yes, the abbey garden is a green oasis in Ghent and is often accessible for free.
Where is the abbey located?
It is located on Sint-Pietersplein in the southern part of historic Ghent.
How long does a visit take?
For a leisurely walk-through, you should plan for about 1 hour.
Is there an audio guide?
Yes, a 'Movie-Guide' tour with the virtual monk Alison is often available.
Saint Peter's Abbey: where is it located?
Saint Peter's Abbey is located in Belgium.
Saint Peter's Abbey: what is there to see?
Highlights include De Wereld van Kina, Kunsthal Sint-Pietersabdij, Ruïnetuin.
Saint Peter's Abbey: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Saint Peter's Abbey: why is it worth visiting?
Saint Peter's Abbey in Ghent was founded in the 7th century by Saint Amandus and grew to become one of the wealthiest and most influential Benedictine monasteries in medieval Flanders.
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