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St. Bavo's Cathedral

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St. Bavo's Cathedral (Belgium)

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St. Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent is a monumental religious building renowned for its blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. The current Gothic structure primarily dates from the 14th to the 16th centuries, though the crypt still contains remains of the original 12th-century Romanesque church. The cathedral is world-famous as the home of the Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Early Netherlandish painting by Hubert and Jan van Eyck, completed in 1432. Originally functioning as the Parish Church of St. John, it was elevated to cathedral status in the 16th century when the Diocese of Ghent was established. Beyond the altarpiece, the interior features significant works by Peter Paul Rubens and a magnificent Rococo pulpit from the 18th century.

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
St. Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent is an active place of worship and can be visited during opening hours. The Ghent Altarpiece is the main attraction and is accessible separately.
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Typical hours
The cathedral is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, on Sundays only from 1 PM. The altarpiece often has its own slightly different hours.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in the nave. At the Ghent Altarpiece, photography is strictly prohibited to protect the artwork.
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Time needed
Allow about one hour for the cathedral and the altarpiece. Art lovers should allocate more time to study the altarpiece in detail.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the Ghent Belfry and St. Nicholas' Church, all located on the same square. Ghent City Hall is also within walking distance.
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Getting there
The cathedral is located in central Ghent, about a 20-minute walk from the main station. Trams 1 and 2 stop nearby.
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Insider tip
Visit the altarpiece in the morning when light through the windows makes the polyptych colors especially bustling. Book tickets online for the altar to avoid waiting.

Geography

Coordinates
51.05310, 3.72690

Facts

  • The Ghent Altarpiece was consecrated in the cathedral on May 6, 1432.
  • The cathedral tower stands at a height of 89 meters.
  • The crypt contains remnants of a Romanesque church dating back to 1150.
  • Emperor Charles V was baptized in this church on February 24, 1500.
  • The elaborate pulpit was carved by Laurent Delvaux in 1745 from oak and marble.
  • Rubens' painting 'Saint Bavo Enters the Convent at Ghent' dates from 1624.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

LysLys<1 km · EExplore →
Flemish ValleyFlemish Valley2 km · WExplore →
Ghent University Botanical GardenGhent University Botanical Garden2 km · SExplore →
Bourgoyen-OssemeersenBourgoyen-Ossemeersen3 km · WExplore →
EvergemEvergem6 km · NExplore →
LochristiLochristi8 km · NEExplore →
Evergem Port ZoneEvergem Port Zone8 km · NExplore →
North Sea Port GhentNorth Sea Port Ghent11 km · NExplore →

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Sights in the town St. Bavo's Cathedral (10)

Saint Bavo Cathedral

Gothic cathedral in Ghent, seat of the diocese. Famous for the Ghent Altarpiece by Van Eyck.

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Gallery Room 8

Exhibition space in Ghent, hosts rotating art projects and installations.

🕒 Sa-Su 15:00-18:00

Miryzaal

Theatre hall in Ghent, used for performances and cultural events.

Bisschoppelijk Paleis🏰 castle

Former bishop's palace in Ghent, now houses diocesan offices.

Lakenhalle🏛 museum

Historic cloth hall in Ghent, now the city museum.

Belfort🏛 museum

Medieval belfry in Ghent, UNESCO World Heritage site, museum on city history.

Geeraard de Duivelsteen🏰 castle

Medieval castle in Ghent, served as residence and prison.

Wijdenaardbrug

Bridge over the Leie in Ghent, connects the old town to the south.

Stadhuis Gent

Gothic and Renaissance town hall in Ghent, seat of the city administration.

Ganda Blooms

Gallery in Ghent featuring contemporary art and design exhibitions.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Ghent Altarpiece located?
The masterpiece by Van Eyck is located in a special chapel inside the cathedral.
Do I need a separate ticket for the altarpiece?
Yes, a separate ticket is required to view the Ghent Altarpiece (often including an audio guide).
Is photography allowed in the cathedral?
Photography is allowed in the cathedral, but strictly forbidden at the Ghent Altarpiece.
What is the crypt?
The Romanesque crypt beneath the cathedral houses old frescoes and religious treasures.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed in the cathedral, except for service dogs.
St. Bavo's Cathedral: where is it located?
St. Bavo's Cathedral is located in Belgium.
St. Bavo's Cathedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint Bavo Cathedral, Gallery Room 8, Miryzaal.
St. Bavo's Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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