St. Bavo’s Cathedral – An In-depth look at one of the Finest Structures in the Heart of Ghent
St. Bavo’s Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world, and a sight to behold in the city of Ghent, Belgium. Located in the heart of the city, St. Bavo’s Cathedral is a stunning structure that has been standing for centuries and stands testament to the city’s rich cultural history.
History of St. Bavo’s Cathedral
The first version of St. Bavo’s Cathedral was built in the 9th century, and it has gone through numerous renovations and expansions over time. The current Gothic structure was built in the 14th century, and work on the church was completed in 1532. The Cathedral has an impressive façade, with beautiful stained glass windows, intricately carved towers, and a large rose window.
The interior of St. Bavo’s Cathedral is equally impressive and includes a variety of stunning features, such as the Ghent Altarpiece, which is one of the most famous pieces of art in the world. The Cathedral also houses the tombs of some of the most famous figures in Ghent’s history, such as Jacob van Artevelde, who was a prominent political figure in the 14th century.
What to See at St. Bavo’s Cathedral
When visiting St. Bavo’s Cathedral, there are a few things that you must see. The first is the Ghent Altarpiece, which is the centerpiece of the Cathedral and is a must-see for any visitor. The altarpiece is a 15th-century masterpiece that was painted by the renowned Van Eyck brothers and is one of the most famous pieces of art in the world.
The Cathedral also houses some of the city’s most important historical figures, such as Jacob van Artevelde. His tomb is located in the Cathedral, and it is a fascinating insight into the life of one of the most influential figures in Ghent’s history.
The Cathedral also features some of the most impressive stained glass windows in the world, with intricate designs and bright colors. There are also several sculptures and statues that are scattered throughout the Cathedral, each of which are unique and adds to the beauty of the structure.
Events at St. Bavo’s Cathedral
St. Bavo’s Cathedral is a popular venue for events and concerts, due to its grandeur and size. The Cathedral regularly hosts concerts and performances, such as the yearly Christmas Concert, which is a popular event for locals and visitors alike. The Cathedral also hosts several religious ceremonies throughout the year, such as Easter and Christmas.
Visiting St. Bavo’s Cathedral
St. Bavo’s Cathedral is open to the public, and visitors can explore the Cathedral and its many features. The Cathedral is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Saturday, and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sundays. Admission to the Cathedral is free, but there are fees for guided tours and events.
In conclusion, St. Bavo’s Cathedral is a stunning structure that is a must-see when visiting Ghent. The Cathedral has an impressive façade, with beautiful stained glass windows, intricately carved towers, and a large rose window. The interior of the Cathedral is equally impressive, with the Ghent Altarpiece as the centerpiece, as well as the tombs of some of Ghent’s most famous figures. The Cathedral is open to the public and also hosts several events and concerts throughout the year.