Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Undoubtedly one of Ghent’s most iconic landmarks, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral rises proudly above the city skyline—there’s no missing it. Back in the Middle Ages, as Ghent flourished and grew in power, it poured its wealth into grand religious buildings. That’s how the modest Romanesque church of Saint John evolved into the Gothic masterpiece we now know as Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. The transformation took a staggering 500 years. While the cathedral is mostly Gothic in style, you can still see traces of its Romanesque past—especially in the crypt, with its 22 altars. Saint Bavo’s is the oldest parish church in Ghent, and it’s also where Charles V, one of the most powerful rulers of the 16th century, was baptised. This is a site truly steeped in history. Art lovers will be pleased to find stunning works by De Crayer, Pourbus, and Rubens on display, but the real star is The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers. This world-famous altarpiece, made up of 12 oak panels depicting vivid biblical scenes, is widely considered the crown jewel of 15th-century Flemish art. Recently restored in 2020, it’s a masterpiece you won’t want to miss.