Saint Michael's Church: A Gothic Masterpiece in Ghent

Saint Michael's Church, or Sint-Michielskerk in Dutch, is a captivating architectural gem nestled in the heart of Ghent. While often overshadowed by the more famous St. Bavo's Cathedral, Saint Michael's offers a unique blend of history, art, and tranquility. The church's origins trace back to the 11th century, with the current structure primarily reflecting the late Gothic style. Construction of the current church began around 1440 and continued in phases over several decades. The western part of the building, including the tower, three-aisled nave, and transept, was completed by 1528. Religious conflicts halted construction, causing looting and destruction. Reconstruction started in 1623, replacing the early Gothic choir with a Brabantine Gothic style. A design for a 134-meter-high spire was proposed but never realized, leaving the tower with a flat roof since 1828. The church's exterior is constructed with sandstone from Brussels and Ledian sandstone. Inside, a rich neo-Gothic interior features a grand altar and ornate pulpit. Visitors can admire 18th-century statues, including a Saint Livinus by Laurent Delvaux and a wooden Saint Sebastian by J. Franciscus Allaert. The church houses Baroque paintings, including 'Christ Dying on the Cross' by Anthony van Dyck and 'The Resurrection of Lazarus' by Otto Venius. The organ, dating back to 1817, adds old-world charm. The church also holds a collection of silver and gold artifacts, including a relic of Saint Dorothea, a sacred 'Doorn' brought by Mary, Queen of Scots, and a relic of the true Cross.