Huis van Alijn: A Journey into Ghent's Daily Life

4.3 (1802)

Discover Ghent's everyday life in the 20th century at Huis van Alijn, a museum of memories, traditions, and personal stories.

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Huis van Alijn

Housed in a preserved medieval almshouse, Huis van Alijn museum in Ghent offers a captivating glimpse into 20th-century daily life and local culture. Explore traditions, rituals, and personal stories within its historic walls and charming courtyard.

A brief summary to Huis van Alijn

Kraanlei 65, Ghent, Arrondissement of Ghent, 9000, BE
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

Visit the museum's website to check for temporary exhibitions and special events.
Take your time to explore the museum's courtyard and folk café.
Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.

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Getting There

Walking

Huis van Alijn is located on Kraanlei, in Ghent's city center, making it easily accessible by foot from many central locations. From Korenmarkt, walk north along the Graslei and cross the bridge onto Kraanlei. The museum will be on your left. This is a scenic walk alongside the canal. No costs involved.
Public Transport

Ghent has an efficient public transport system. Several tram and bus lines stop near Huis van Alijn. Check the 'De Lijn' app or website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Tram lines 1, 2, 3, and 4 pass through the city center. A single ticket costs €3 when paying contactless on the bus or tram. Tickets purchased in advance or via SMS cost €2.50.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Ghent. You can find taxi stands at Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort train stations, as well as Korenmarkt and Woodrow Wilsonplein. A short taxi ride from the train station to Huis van Alijn will cost approximately €14.4. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Huis van Alijn

Step back in time at the Huis van Alijn, a unique museum nestled in the heart of Ghent. This isn't your typical museum filled with ancient artifacts; instead, it's a celebration of 20th-century daily life, traditions, and the stories of ordinary people. The museum is located in the only preserved medieval almshouse in Ghent, dating back to 1363. Originally, the 'Kinderen Alijnshospitaal' provided shelter and care for widows, the poor, orphans, and the marginalized, founded as atonement after a deadly feud between the Alijn and Rijm families. Above the entrance, you can read 'Kindren Halyns Hospital anno 1363', a reminder of the building's origins. Inside, you'll discover a fascinating collection of objects, photographs, and stories that bring the past to life. Explore exhibits dedicated to various aspects of daily life, from family traditions and celebrations to work, leisure, and popular culture. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that delve deeper into specific themes. Don't miss the museum's charming courtyard, a tranquil oasis where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere. You can also visit the traditional folk café, a cozy spot to enjoy a drink and reflect on your journey through time. Huis van Alijn offers adapted tours for people with dementia, the blind and visually impaired, the deaf and hard of hearing.