Belgium city of Gent - Part 1

Belgium city of Gent - Part 1

Gent is a city located in the Flemish Region of Belgium . It is the capital and largest city of the east Flanders province and is Belgium' s second largest municipality by number of inhabitants. Today it is a busy city with a port and a university.

Gent grew around a 10th century castle that was built to control traffic on the Scheldt (river). Completely restored, the castle offers a rare glimpse of an early Middle Age fortress similar to those left by the Crusaders in the Holy land. Sint-Veerle square and the fish market entrance can be seen from the castle.

Tradesmen used to gather around the Castle of the Counts and ended up settling there permanently on narrow plots which they were granted and are still to this day , obvious in the area surrounding the Castle. A house on the Lieve, at the foot of the castle, has retained it’s well-restored wooden rear facade.

The castle is a popular tourist destination and a must visit with its brilliant display of full body armour, various weapons which include some items used on some unfortunate people in torture rooms. In fact there are several torture spine tingling rooms which are unbelievable. As you climb the castle walls they offer excellent views from the surrounding city. Don’t forget your camera.

In the background the Romanesque church of St. James, St’Nicholas church with its 96 meter high bell tower and St Bavos cathedral. The belfry was a symbol of the bourgeoisie (the bourgeoisie is a French pronunciation of wealthy status of the middle class from the latter part of the Middle ages). This was an observation tower and housed a bell which was rung in times of danger.

A cloth town, Gent defied its princes who in line with French policy, went to war against England, on which Gent depended for supplies of wool. Gent was also strengthened by its role as staging post in the grain trade. Gent thought it could also defy Charles V in 1537 and refused to pay its taxes. The emperor however abolished all privileges and confiscated its bell.

Seen from St Bavo, The Cloth hall adjoining the belfry and, on the right, the Great wing of the town hall. In very poor repair by the 19th Century, Gent’s heritage began to be restored. The belfry’s spire and turrets were rebuilt and the Cloth Hall’s worn pinnacles were repaired. Gent is proud of it’s medieval past of struggle and resistance.