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St. Jacob's Church: A Gothic Gem in Ghent

Discover St. Jacob's Church in Ghent: a stunning Gothic masterpiece with a rich history, art, and a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the city.

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St. Jacob's Church (Sint-Jacobskerk) is a prominent landmark in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. This impressive Gothic church, with its soaring spires and intricate stonework, showcases the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to St. Jacob's Church

  • Wednesday 6 pm-8 pm
  • Thursday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
  • Friday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 6 pm-8 pm

Local tips

  • Check the church's opening hours before visiting, as they may vary.
  • Take your time to explore the surrounding streets, where you can find charming cafés and shops.
  • Look for the scallop shell embedded in a flagstone at the main entrance, marking the start of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Korenmarkt Square in the city center, walk south towards Sint-Niklaaskerk (St. Nicholas' Church). Pass the church and continue straight on Sint-Nikolaasstraat until you reach Bij Sint-Jacobs. St. Jacob's Church will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Gent-Sint-Pieters train station, take tram line 1 towards Ledeberg. Disembark at the Korenmarkt stop. From Korenmarkt, walk towards Sint-Niklaaskerk (St. Nicholas' Church). Pass the church and continue straight on Sint-Nikolaasstraat until you reach Bij Sint-Jacobs. St. Jacob's Church will be on your right. A single-ride ticket costs approximately €3.00 and is valid for 60 minutes. Contactless payment is also available on trams for €3.00 per ride.

  • 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. The starting price of a taxi in Ghent is 4.9 EUR, with each KM priced at 1.9 EUR. Be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours or events.

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Discover more about St. Jacob's Church

St. Jacob's Church, known locally as Sint-Jacobskerk, is a captivating blend of architectural styles and a rich history deeply intertwined with Ghent's cultural and religious evolution. Construction began in 1226, replacing a former Romanesque church. The initial design embraced the Scheldt Gothic style, 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, intricate tracery, 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 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, 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. 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, showcasing the region's artistic heritage. 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 of the pilgrimage.

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