Exploring the Historic Heart of Ghent

• HelloHallo
  [HAH-loh]
• GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot zeens]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNee
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [AHL-stu-bleeft]
• Thank youDank u
  [dahnk oo]
• Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [SOR-ee]
• How are you?Hoe gaat het met u?
  [hoo gat het met oo]
• Fine. And you?Goed. En met u?
  [khoot. en met oo]
• Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [spraykt oo ENG-els]
• I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-GRAYP het neet]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag de menukaart willen zien, alstublieft
  [ik zou khraakh duh mernoo-kart VIL-len zeen, AHL-stu-bleeft]
• I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik ayt khayn vlays]
• Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIk zou graag willen betalen, alstublieft
  [ik zou khraakh VIL-len buh-TAH-len, AHL-stu-bleeft]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Ga weg!
  [ga veg]
• Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel duh poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel an dok-ter]
• I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben vur-dwahld]
• I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ik ben zik]

• I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag willen kopen...
  [ik zou khraakh VIL-len KO-pen]
• I'm just lookingIk ben gewoon aan het kijken
  [ik ben khuh-WOON ahn het KEEK-en]
• How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [HOO-vale kost het]
• That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [dat is tuh doo-er]
• Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt oo duh preys vur-LAH-hen]

• What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laht is het]
• It's one o'clockHet is een uur
  [het is an oor]
• Half past (10)Half elf
  [hahlf elf]
• MorningOchtend
  [OCH-tend]
• AfternoonNamiddag
  [NA-mid-dahkh]
• EveningAvond
  [AH-vont]
• YesterdayGisteren
  [GIST-uh-ren]
• TodayVandaag
  [vahn-dahkh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [MOR-ghen]
• 1Een
  [een]
• 2Twee
  [tway]
• 3Drie
  [dree]
• 4Vier
  [veer]
• 5Vijf
  [vayf]
• 6Zes
  [zehs]
• 7Zeven
  [zay-ven]
• 8Acht
  [ahkht]
• 9Negen
  [nay-ghen]
• 10Tien
  [teen]

• Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [vahr is an/de]
• What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vaht is het AH-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u mij laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [kunt oo may lah-ten zeen (op de kaart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-er is de vol-HEN-duh (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Een ticket (naar ....)
  [een ticket (nar)]

Ghent's historic center dates back to the Roman era, with the establishment of the settlement 'Ganda' around the 1st century AD. The strategic location at the confluence of the River Lys and the River Scheldt facilitated trade and defense, leading to its growth as a significant trading post.

In the Middle Ages, particularly during the 12th to 15th centuries, Ghent became one of the most prosperous cities in Europe, thanks to the flourishing textile industry. The construction of iconic landmarks, such as the St. Bavo's Cathedral and the Gravensteen castle, reflects this period of wealth and power.

One of the most significant artworks in the world, the Ghent Altarpiece, was completed in 1432 by the artist Jan van Eyck. This masterpiece is housed in St. Bavo's Cathedral and is a prime example of early Netherlandish painting, showcasing the artistic achievements of the period.

The Ghent Uprising was a significant revolt by the citizens against the oppressive rule of Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy. This event was pivotal in shaping the political landscape of the region, leading to a temporary independence for Ghent and highlighting the city's role in the struggle for civic rights.

The 19th century brought about rapid industrialization in Ghent, transforming it into a center for coal and cotton industries. The construction of the first railway line in Belgium in the 1830s further boosted economic growth and connectivity, reshaping the city's landscape and demographics.

During both World Wars, Ghent faced significant challenges, including occupation and devastation. The city was a strategic location due to its industrial capabilities, which made it a target for bombings and military operations, leaving a lasting impact on its infrastructure and community.

In recent years, Ghent's historic center has experienced a cultural renaissance, emphasizing arts, music, and gastronomy. Events like the Gentse Feesten, an annual arts festival, celebrate the city's rich history and vibrant contemporary culture, attracting visitors from around the globe.

The Historic Center of Ghent is easily accessible from other neighborhoods and cities. From Ghent's main train station, Gent-Sint-Pieters, you can take a local tram (Line 1) or bus to the city center. If you're coming from Brussels, direct trains run frequently and take about 30 minutes. Once in Ghent, the Historic Center is a short walk from the tram and bus stops.

Exploring the Historic Center is best done on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance. The city also has a reliable tram and bus network, with trams running frequently. Bicycle rentals are popular, and there are designated bike lanes throughout the area. For a unique experience, consider renting a pedal boat to navigate the canals.

The Historic Center of Ghent is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas like the Gravensteen Castle and the Korenmarkt. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly during busy events or festivals. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, especially around the outskirts of the center.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospital, UZ Gent, is equipped for serious medical emergencies. For minor health concerns, pharmacies are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking; cobblestone streets can be uneven. Don't wear overly casual attire when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect the local customs, especially in churches; cover your shoulders and knees when visiting. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Bonjour'. Don't forget to say 'Dank u' when receiving help or service. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Waterzooi and Belgian fries. Don't engage in loud conversations in restaurants, as locals appreciate a quieter dining experience.

To experience the Historic Center like a local, try visiting the small cafes and eateries tucked away from the main tourist paths for authentic Belgian cuisine. Attend local festivals or markets for a taste of Ghent's vibrant culture. Engage with local artisans in the Patershol district, where you can find unique handmade crafts. Additionally, taking a stroll along the riverbanks during sunset offers breathtaking views of the illuminated medieval buildings.