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Café Den Turk: A Historic Ghent Gathering Place

Experience Ghent's oldest café, a 15th-century gem serving local brews and traditional snacks in a historic and cozy atmosphere.

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Café Den Turk, claiming to be the oldest café in Ghent, has been a fixture since the 15th century. Once a clubhouse for a crossbow guild, it's now a popular spot for locals and city council members seeking authentic Ghent beer and traditional snacks in a cozy, historic setting.

A brief summary to Café Den Turk

  • Monday 2 pm-3 am
  • Tuesday 2 pm-3 am
  • Wednesday 2 pm-3 am
  • Thursday 2 pm-4 am
  • Friday 11 am-4 am
  • Saturday 11 am-4 am
  • Sunday 11 am-3 am

Local tips

  • Try the 'uufflakke,' a traditional Ghent snack of head cheese, for an authentic local culinary experience.
  • Visit after a Ghent city council meeting for a chance to spot local politicians enjoying a post-meeting pint.
  • Check out the old Flemish 'spaarkas,' where regulars save up for their next drink.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Café Den Turk is centrally located on Botermarkt, a short walk from most central Ghent landmarks. From Korenmarkt, head north towards the Sint-Niklaaskerk (Saint Nicholas Church), then continue onto Botermarkt. The café will be on your right. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station, take tram line 1 or 24 towards 'Gent Dampoort'. Get off at the 'Korenmarkt' stop. From there, walk towards the river and cross the bridge; Botermarkt will be on your left, a short 5-minute walk. A single ride costs €3 and is valid for 60 minutes, allowing changes between buses and trams. Alternatively, a day ticket costs €9.

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Discover more about Café Den Turk

Café Den Turk, located on Botermarkt, is more than just a bar; it's a journey into Ghent's rich history. Claiming to be the city's oldest café, its origins trace back to the 15th century when it served as a meeting place for the local crossbow guild. Over the centuries, it evolved into a beloved 'brown café' (a traditional Belgian pub) for all Ghent residents. The café's name, 'Den Turk' (The Turk), is said to have originated from its first owner, who had traveled to Turkey or a nearby region. Upon his return, he was nicknamed 'Den Turk,' and the café inherited the moniker. The building itself reflects Ghent's architectural heritage, with a facade constructed of sand-lime, a material frequently used for prestigious buildings in the 15th and 16th centuries. Inside, Café Den Turk exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The walls are adorned with portraits of local artists, musicians, architects, and city councilors. It's a place where music students from the nearby conservatory mingle with local officials. The café is known for pouring some of the best draught beers in Ghent, along with a selection of whiskeys, cognacs, and traditional sandwiches. A popular snack is 'uufflakke' (brawn), a traditional Belgian dish of cheese and jellied meat. Many local councilors visit Den Turk after meetings to enjoy a Strop beer. Adding to its charm, Den Turk features an old Flemish 'spaarkas,' a wooden box with numbered holes where regulars save money for future drinks. The café is a living testament to Ghent's history and culture, offering visitors a genuine taste of the city's spirit.

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