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Belfry of Ghent: A Symbol of Freedom

Ascend Ghent's iconic Belfry for panoramic views and a journey through the city's rich history and independence.

The Belfry of Ghent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a proud symbol of the city's independence and prosperity since the 14th century. Climb this iconic tower for panoramic views and a glimpse into Ghent's rich history.

A brief summary to Belfort van Gent

  • Sint-Baafsplein, Ghent, Arrondissement of Ghent, 9000, BE

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
  • The Belfry is open daily, but hours vary slightly depending on the season; check the official website for current opening times.
  • Consider visiting on a Sunday morning to hear the carillonneur play, or on a Saturday night in July and August for a live carillon performance.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like St. Bavo's Cathedral and the Graslei and Korenlei waterfronts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Belfry is located on Sint-Baafsplein in the heart of Ghent, making it easily accessible on foot from most major attractions in the city center. From Korenmarkt, walk south towards St. Bavo's Cathedral; the Belfry is adjacent to the cathedral. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Ghent has an extensive network of trams and buses. Tram lines 1, 2, 3, and 4 all pass through the city center. Get off at the Korenmarkt stop, which is a short walk from the Belfry. A single ticket purchased on the tram or bus costs €3. Contactless payment is available. Buying a single ticket via SMS costs €2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Ghent. You can find them at designated taxi stands or book one through a taxi company. A taxi ride from Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station to the Belfry typically costs around €19.50. Keep in mind that taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

  • Car

    If arriving by car, parking is available in underground car parks near the Belfry. Recommended options include Vrijdagmarkt, Kouter, or Sint-Michiels. Parking Reep is also a central option. Expect to pay around €5 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of €26-€30. Be aware of Ghent's low emission zone and register your vehicle to avoid fines.

Discover more about Belfort van Gent

Rising 91 meters above the city, the Belfry of Ghent is one of three medieval towers that define Ghent's skyline, along with Saint Bavo Cathedral and St Nicholas' Church. Construction began in 1313, intended as a symbol of the power struggle between the people of Ghent and the Count of Flanders. Throughout the centuries, the Belfry has served as a watchtower, a repository for the city's important documents, and a showcase of its growing wealth and influence.The belfry has had a total of seven different crowns, each time adapted to the growing number of bells of the carillon. The carillon, with its many bells, played a crucial role in city life, announcing events, sounding warnings, and regulating daily activities. The famous bell, Roland, weighing over 6,000 kilograms, was used to signal the opening and closing of the city gates and to warn of fires or attacks.Adjacent to the Belfry is the Cloth Hall, a testament to Ghent's prosperous textile industry. Also near the Belfry is the Mammelokker, a former city jail guardroom, named after a Roman legend of a daughter who secretly breastfed her imprisoned father. Today, the Belfry offers visitors a chance to climb to the top (either by stairs or lift) and witness stunning views of Ghent, while learning about the city's fascinating past.

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