St Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent
Facts and practical information
St Bavo's Cathedral, a majestic testament to religious architecture, stands proudly in the historical city of Ghent, Belgium. This Gothic edifice, with its towering spire reaching 91 meters, is a focal point of the city's skyline and a repository of art and history.
The cathedral's cornerstone was laid in the 10th century, although the structure that visitors admire today primarily dates back to the 14th century. St Bavo's Cathedral is renowned for housing one of the most important works of the early Northern Renaissance, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, also known as the Ghent Altarpiece, painted by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck.
This church is not just a place of worship but also a treasure trove of art, featuring an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries. Among its notable features is the baroque high altar, the rococo pulpit, and the tomb of Charles V's illegitimate daughter, Margaret of Parma.
St Bavo's Cathedral is open to the public, welcoming visitors to explore its vast nave, chapels, and crypt. It is a site of pilgrimage for art enthusiasts and a place of serenity for those seeking spiritual solace. The cathedral also hosts concerts and religious services, contributing to the cultural tapestry of Ghent.
St Bavo's Cathedral – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Saint Nicholas Church, Design museum Gent, Belfry of Ghent, Huis van Alijn.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is St Bavo's Cathedral open?
- Monday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am - 5 pm
Which popular attractions are close to St Bavo's Cathedral?
How to get to St Bavo's Cathedral by public transport?
Tram
- Gent Duivelsteen • Lines: 1, 4 (3 min walk)
- Gent Korenmarkt Perron 4 • Lines: 1, 4 (5 min walk)
Bus
- Gent Reep • Lines: 17, 5, 52, 53, 54, 55, 57, 58, 68, 69, 8 (5 min walk)
- Gent Sint-Jacobs • Lines: 17, 3, 38, 39, 5, 52, 53, 54, 55, 57, 58, 68, 69, 8 (6 min walk)
Train
- Gent-Dampoort (16 min walk)