St. Jacob's Church: A Gothic Gem in Ghent
Discover Ghent's St. Jacob's Church: a stunning Gothic masterpiece with a rich history, art, and cultural significance in the heart of the city.
St. Jacob's Church, known locally as Sint-Jacobskerk, stands proudly in the vibrant city of Ghent, Belgium. Its soaring spires and intricate stonework are a testament to the city's rich history and enduring architectural heritage. Construction began in 1226, replacing a former Romanesque church. The initial design embraced the Scheldt Gothic style, a regional variation characterized by its emphasis on verticality and the use of blue-grey stone from the Tournai region. This is evident in the church's soaring spires and expansive stained-glass windows. The construction process spanned several centuries, with additions and modifications resulting in a unique aesthetic that seamlessly blends elements from different periods. The interior showcases this blend, with later Baroque additions complementing the original Gothic architecture. Throughout its history, St. Jacob's Church has served as a vital center for the religious and cultural life of Ghent. It has been a place of worship, a hub for community gatherings, and a silent witness to significant events. Today, the church continues to be an active place of worship, offering a sense of peace and tranquility amidst the bustling city center. It also attracts visitors who come to admire its architectural beauty and explore its artistic treasures. The church's interior is a treasure trove of art and history. One of its most prized possessions is "The Martyrdom of Saint James" by Peter Paul Rubens. The church also houses a collection of impressive sculptures and paintings by various artists, showcasing the region's artistic heritage. The intricate stonework, soaring vaulted ceilings, and stained-glass windows create a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Ever since its construction, the church has been a meeting place for local residents and pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. At the main entrance, a scallop shell has been integrated into one of the flagstones, marking a starting point or milestone of the pilgrimage.
Local tips
- Admire "The Martyrdom of Saint James" by Rubens, a masterpiece showcasing the artist's dramatic energy and masterful use of light and shadow.
- Explore the church's architecture, admiring the intricate stonework, soaring vaulted ceilings, and stained-glass windows.
- Look for the scallop shell embedded in a flagstone at the main entrance, marking the church as a pilgrimage milestone on the route to Santiago de Compostela.
A brief summary to St. Jacob's Church
- Bij Sint-Jacobs, Ghent, Arrondissement of Ghent, 9000, BE
- +3292357836
- Visit website
- Wednesday 6 pm-8 pm
- Thursday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
- Friday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
- Sunday 6 pm-8 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the Vrijdagmarkt, walk east towards the city center. St. Jacob's Church is located directly off the square at Bij Sint-Jacobs. The walk is short and straightforward, taking only a few minutes. The church is easily visible from the square.
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Public Transport
From Ghent-Sint-Pieters railway station, take tram line 1 or 4 towards 'Hogeschool' or 'Korenmarkt'. Get off at the 'Sint-Jacobs' stop. From there, St. Jacob's Church is a short walk away; head towards 'Bij Sint-Jacobs'. A single ticket costs €3 and is valid for 60 minutes, allowing unlimited transfers. Contactless payment is available on trams and buses.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Ghent-Sint-Pieters railway station to St. Jacob's Church typically costs between €13-€16 and takes approximately 7 minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours or events.
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Driving
If driving, enter 'Bij Sint-Jacobs, 9000 Gent' into your GPS. Parking in the immediate vicinity of St. Jacob's Church is limited and can be challenging. Several paid parking garages are available within walking distance, including Parking Vrijdagmarkt (Vrijdagmarkt 1) and Parking Sint-Michiels (Sint-Michielsplein 8). Expect to pay around €5 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of €30. Ghent operates a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in the city center. Check your vehicle's compatibility and register if necessary to avoid a fine of €150.
