Saint Bavo's Cathedral is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe. It is located in Ghent, Belgium, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. If you are planning a trip to Europe, make sure to include a visit to this magnificent cathedral. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to experience the best of Saint Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium.
Who Should Visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral?
- Art enthusiasts who appreciate Gothic architecture and religious iconography
- History buffs interested in the medieval period and Renaissance art and artifacts
- Travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Belgium
- Spiritual seekers who want to connect with their faith in a serene setting
What Is Saint Bavo's Cathedral?
- A stunning Gothic cathedral built between the 14th and 16th centuries that houses many important works of art and relics
- A religious site dedicated to Saint Bavo, a nobleman turned priest, who lived in the 7th century
- A symbol of Ghent's rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy
- A must-visit destination for travelers exploring Belgium's lesser-known gems
When Is the Best Time to Visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral?
- Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller
- Weekdays when there are fewer tourists and shorter queues
- The first Sunday of the month when admission is free
- During special events such as concerts, exhibitions, and religious ceremonies
How to Get to Saint Bavo's Cathedral?
There are several ways to get to Saint Bavo's Cathedral:
- By train: Ghent has two main train stations, Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort, with frequent connections to other Belgian cities and nearby countries. From the train station, you can take a tram or bus to the city center.
- By car: If you are driving, there are several parking garages in the city center. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours and finding a parking spot may be challenging.
- By bike: Ghent is a bike-friendly city with many cycling paths and rental services available. You can rent a bike at the train station or in the city center.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Saint Bavo's Cathedral
Pros:
- Stunning architecture and exquisite art collections that showcase Ghent's cultural richness
- Peaceful and serene atmosphere ideal for quiet contemplation and relaxation
- Affordable admission fees and free entry on the first Sunday of the month
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff who can provide insights and recommendations
Cons:
- Crowds can be overwhelming during peak season and weekends
- Limited accessibility for disabled visitors due to steep stairs and narrow corridors
- No photography allowed inside the cathedral
- Some areas may be closed off for restoration or maintenance works
Alternatives to Saint Bavo's Cathedral
If you want to explore other places of interest in Ghent, here are some alternatives to Saint Bavo's Cathedral:
- Gravensteen Castle: A medieval fortress built in the 12th century with impressive battlements, turrets, and a moat. It now houses a museum of torture instruments and weapons.
- The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb: A masterpiece of Renaissance art painted by the Van Eyck brothers in the early 15th century. It is displayed in the nearby Museum of Fine Arts.
- St. Nicholas' Church: A beautiful Gothic church located in the heart of Ghent with stunning stained glass windows and a rich history dating back to the 13th century.
Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Plan ahead: Check the opening hours, admission fees, and special events on the official website of the cathedral.
- Dress appropriately: Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as this is a religious site.
- Arrive early or late: To avoid the crowds, either arrive at the opening time or later in the afternoon when most tourists have left.
- Buy your ticket: You can purchase your ticket at the entrance or online in advance to skip the queue.
- Explore the interior: Take your time to admire the stunning architecture, the intricate wood carvings, and the beautiful stained-glass windows.
- Visit the museum: The cathedral houses a small but impressive museum with valuable artifacts and paintings.
- Light a candle: As a sign of respect and devotion, you can light a candle at the altar and say a prayer.
- Shop for souvenirs: The cathedral has a gift shop where you can buy books, postcards, and other religious items.
Comparing Saint Bavo's Cathedral with Other European Cathedrals
Saint Bavo's Cathedral is a unique masterpiece of Gothic architecture that stands out among other European cathedrals in terms of its beauty and historical significance. Here is a brief comparison with some of the most famous cathedrals in Europe:
- Notre-Dame de Paris: This iconic cathedral in the heart of Paris is known for its stunning rose windows, flying buttresses, and gargoyles. However, it suffered a devastating fire in 2019, and its restoration is ongoing.
- St. Peter's Basilica: The largest church in the world located in the Vatican City is renowned for its elaborate Baroque design, Michelangelo's frescoes, and Bernini's sculptures. It also houses the tomb of Saint Peter, the first pope.
- Sagrada Familia: This unfinished basilica in Barcelona, designed by Antoni Gaudi, is a masterpiece of Catalan Modernism and combines Gothic and Art Nouveau elements. It is expected to be completed in 2026, more than a century after its construction began.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit to Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Buy your ticket online in advance to skip the queue and save time.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb and narrow corridors to navigate.
- Bring a guidebook or hire an audio guide for a better understanding of the artworks and history of the cathedral.
- Respect the silence and tranquility of the place by speaking softly and turning off your phone.
- Attend a concert or a religious service if possible to experience the acoustics and ambiance of the cathedral.
The Best Features of Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- The Ghent Altarpiece: One of the most important and valuable works of art in the world, painted by Jan and Hubert Van Eyck in the early 15th century. It depicts scenes from the Bible and has been stolen and recovered several times throughout history.
- The pulpit: A stunning masterpiece of Baroque sculpture depicting the conversion of Saint Bavo by Peter Paul Rubens and his workshop.
- The organ: One of the largest and finest organs in Belgium, built in the 18th century with over 6000 pipes and a rich sound.
- The choir stalls: Elaborate wood carvings depicting scenes from the Bible and the life of Saint Bavo, created by Willem Verdonck in the 18th century.
FAQs About Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Can I take pictures inside Saint Bavo's Cathedral? No, photography is not allowed inside the cathedral to preserve the artworks and maintain a respectful atmosphere.
- How much does it cost to visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral? The admission fee for adults is €8, but it is free on the first Sunday of the month and for children under 12.
- Are there any guided tours available? Yes, you can book a guided tour in advance or hire an audio guide at the entrance for an additional fee.
- Is Saint Bavo's Cathedral accessible for disabled visitors? Due to its historical nature, the cathedral has limited accessibility for wheelchair users and visually impaired visitors. However, there are some areas that can be accessed by elevator or with assistance.
- Can I attend a concert or a religious service at Saint Bavo's Cathedral? Yes, the cathedral hosts regular concerts and cultural events, as well as daily masses and religious services.
Conclusion
Saint Bavo's Cathedral is a true gem of European heritage that deserves to be discovered and appreciated by anyone interested in art, history, and spirituality. With this guide, we hope you have gained a better understanding of what makes this cathedral so special and how to make the most of your visit. Whether you are planning a trip to Ghent or just want to learn more about this magnificent cathedral, we hope you have found this article informative and inspiring.
