Saint Bavo's Abbey, East Flanders Travel Guide

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Discover Ghent's hidden gem: Explore the serene ruins of Saint Bavo's Abbey, a historic site with a rich medieval past and tranquil gardens.

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Saint Bavo's Abbey

Saint Bavo's Abbey, founded in the 7th century, is a serene historical site in Ghent, Belgium. Once a powerful Benedictine monastery, it faced Viking raids and imperial demolition. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, marked by green shrubs and evocative hornbeam columns, offering a tranquil escape into medieval history.

A brief summary to Saint Bavo's Abbey

Coyendanspark 6, Ghent, Arrondissement of Ghent, 9000, BE
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Friday 2 pm-6 pm
Saturday 2 pm-6 pm
Sunday 2 pm-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Saint Bavo's Abbey.

Visit during the afternoon for the best light and to enjoy the gardens in full bloom.
Check the opening hours before you go, as the abbey is only open a few days a week.
Explore the site at your own pace to fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and historical significance.

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Explore Saint Bavo's Abbey on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Saint Bavo's Abbey, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the heart of Patershol, walk towards Hoogstraat. Continue for 300 meters until you reach Kortrijksepoortstraat, then turn left. Walk for 400 meters until you see Coyendanspark on your right. The entrance to Saint Bavo's Abbey is located at Coyendanspark 6 on your left.
Public Transport

From Gent-Sint-Pieters train station, take tram 1 towards 'Ledeberg' or tram 4 towards 'Zwijnaarde'. Get off at the 'Korenmarkt' stop. From there, walk 15 minutes to Saint Bavo's Abbey. Head northeast on Sint-Baafsplein, continue onto the Boulevard du Souverain, and turn left onto Coyendanspark. A single tram ticket costs €3 and is valid for 60 minutes.
Car

If driving, follow signs to Coyendanspark in Ghent's city center. Be aware of Ghent's Low Emission Zone; check requirements and register your vehicle if needed to avoid fines. Parking is available on the street, but fees may apply. Parking Garages nearby include Parking Reep and Parking Gent Dampoort. Parking at Gent Dampoort costs €1.80 per hour between 9 am and 7 pm.

Discover more about Saint Bavo's Abbey

Founded in the 7th century by Saint Amand, Saint Bavo's Abbey boasts a rich and complex history. Originally known as Ganda, the abbey played a significant role in the Christianization of the region. Throughout the Middle Ages, it grew into a powerful Benedictine monastery, rivaling nearby Saint Peter's Abbey.The abbey endured Viking raids in the 9th century, causing the monks to flee. It was later rebuilt and prospered for centuries. However, in 1540, Emperor Charles V ordered its demolition as punishment for the Ghent uprising. A Spanish fortress was built on the site, symbolizing the city's defeat.Today, the abbey ruins offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of Ghent. The outline of the original Romanesque church is marked by green shrubs, while five-meter-high hornbeam columns evoke the grandeur of the past. A concrete stage stands where the altar once stood, hosting artistic performances. The site is open to visitors for limited hours to protect its delicate remains. Exploring Saint Bavo's Abbey provides a unique glimpse into Ghent's medieval past and its enduring cultural heritage.