In his 1961 hit song “Marieke”, the Belgian singer, Jacques Brel sings about a Flemish girl, Marieke, whom he once loved and lived “between the towers of Bruges and Gent. It is the only song where he sings both in his native French language and in Flemish.
Towers played an important part in medieval life. In addition to the religious significance of towers and their associated spires, the observations towers played an important role in protecting the cities where they stood. Fire was a persistent problem in medieval times and the sooner it was spotted the better.
There are three medieval towers that overlook the old city centre towers in Gent (Ghent). The most famous is the 14th century 91-metre-tall (298.5 ft) Belfry of Ghent. The other two belong to Saint Bavo Cathredral and Saint Nicholas’s Church. Originally the tower of Saint Nicholas’s Church served as the main watchtower in Ghent, but in 1442, the watchmen moved to the Belfry.
St Bavo’s Cathedral is the oldest parish church in the heart of Ghent. It stands on the site of a 10th century church and a 12th century Romanesque church. In medieval times Gent was a rich and powerful city and the church that stood on this site was converted during the 15th and 16th centuries into the impressive St Bavo’s Cathedral.
Bruges on the other hand has one main tower, the Belfry of Bruges. It was constructed originally in the 13th century. Over the years it has its fair share of misfortunate, suffering from 3 major fires but being rebuilt each time. Like the towers of Ghent it is a UNESCO heritage site. The tower was originally used as an observation post. At 83 meters high with a climb of 366 steps you too can observe the local landscape. It is definitely worth the effort.
There is a second tower in Bruges worth paying a visit. The Poertoren or Gunpowder Tower. Built originally as a defensive tower in 1397 it was eventually used to store gunpowder hence its name still used to day. This was in fact one of two towers that sat either side of the Minnewater Bridge over the canal and were known as the Waterpoort or Water Gate.
Bruges is by far the most popular tourist attraction of this two beautiful cities but it would be almost criminal not to visit Gent if you are in the area. Almost untouched during the Second World War, a stroll around the city centre will take you back centuries as the place is so well preserved.
Once of the best ways to see both cities is by foot, Gent has the largest pedestrianised areas in Belgium, but if you want to take an even more leisurely tour, then both provide the opportunity to see many of the sites by taking a trip on a canal boat.
There is so much culture and history in these two magnificently beautiful cities, we haven’t needed to mention, waffles, chocolate or beer to grab your attention.
Take a view from the towers or Bruges and Ghent. Contact Maggie today to visit these medievel gems.
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Posted inActivities, Belgium, Bruges, Europe, Gent, Ghent, Historical