Ghent is the fourth largest
city of Belgium (approx.250.000
inhabitants). It is not as big as Antwerp
but bigger than Bruges. It is also less
famous among tourists than the often
praised Bruges. However, for some people
Ghent is the real diamond of Flanders and
Belgium. In a unique way Gent has managed
to preserve its medieval power while
keeping up with the times. The city center
alone is a showcase of medieval Flemish
wealth and commercial success.
Modern Ghent certainly cannot be overlooked in
Belgium. The city has an important harbor,
thanks to the canal Gent-Terneuzen which allows
sea-going vessels to bring their products to
the city and its industrial hinterland. Because
of the central location in the country, the
'Flanders Technology' fair can regularly be
organized.
The Belgian State University (RUG =
Rijksuniversiteit Gent) continues to grow in
importance. The presence of so many young
people and students has turned Ghent into an
important Flemish cultural center.
Ghent is also the flower city of Belgium.
Flower growers from the region around Ghent
sell their beautiful Begonia's and Azalea's all
over the world. Every 5 years the successful
'Gentse Floraliën" ( Ghent Flower Show)
attracts thousands to the city.
The tourist will not have eyes enough to admire
the awesome architectural wealth , which offers
a splendid combination of impressiveness and
idyllic charm of the proud and (in former
times) often rebellious city of
Ghent.
Ghent is the fourth largest
city of Belgium (approx.250.000
inhabitants). It is not as big as Antwerp
but bigger than Bruges. It is also less
famous among tourists than the often
praised Bruges. However, for some people
Ghent is the real diamond of Flanders and
Belgium. In a unique way Gent has managed
to preserve its medieval power while
keeping up with the times. The city center
alone is a showcase of medieval Flemish
wealth and commercial success.