Cathedral of Saint Bavo
Vlaamse Gewest
The Cathedral of Saint Bavo, located in Ghent, Belgium, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture featuring pointed arches, large stained glass windows, and vertical emphasis. Originally a Romanesque church from the 12th century, its current form evolved through three major construction phases from the 14th to the 16th century, including the 89-meter tall Brabantine Gothic west tower. The cathedral holds immense historical and cultural value as the seat of the Diocese of Ghent since 1559. It is renowned worldwide for housing the Ghent Altarpiece (The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb) by Jan van Eyck, a pinnacle of 15th-century Flemish painting. Other notable artworks include Peter Paul Rubens' "Conversion of Saint Bavo," the Calvary Triptych attributed to Justus van Gent, and works by Frans Pourbus the Elder and Gaspar de Crayer. The interior also features exquisite baroque and rococo furnishings, such as the high altar, pulpit by Laurent Delvaux, and ornate tombs of bishops. The cathedral’s tower is part of Ghent’s famous trio of towers alongside the Belfry and Saint Nicholas' Church. Visitors can explore the choir ambulatory adorned with portraits of bishops and canons, and since 2021, the Ghent Altarpiece is displayed in the Sacrament Chapel with an adjoining visitor center. The cathedral remains a vibrant place of worship and cultural heritage, welcoming visitors nearly every day of the year.
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Tip: Visit the Cathedral of Saint Bavo during weekdays or outside major holidays to avoid crowds. Purchase tickets for the Ghent Altarpiece visitor center in advance, especially during restoration periods when some panels are replaced by high-definition reproductions. Take advantage of guided tours and augmented reality experiences to fully appreciate the cathedral's art and history. The cathedral is closed only on January 1st. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's 89-meter high tower is one of the three famous towers of Ghent, alongside the Belfry and Saint Nicholas' Church.
- •The heaviest bell in the tower, named Bavo, weighs 5,500 kg and was made by Florent Delcourt.
- •The Ghent Altarpiece by Jan van Eyck, housed in the cathedral, is considered a masterpiece of 15th-century Flemish painting.
- •Since 2021, the Ghent Altarpiece is displayed in the Sacrament Chapel with a dedicated visitor center offering augmented reality experiences.
- •The pulpit was crafted by Laurent Delvaux between 1741 and 1745, featuring oak, gilded wood, and marble.
History
The Cathedral of Saint Bavo was originally a Romanesque parish church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, consecrated in 942.
Over centuries, it transformed into a Gothic cathedral through three main construction phases from the early 14th to mid-16th century, including the addition of the Brabantine Gothic west tower.
In 1559, it was elevated to cathedral status with the creation of the Diocese of Ghent.
The cathedral’s role shifted after the Spanish Castle was built nearby by Emperor Charles V, forcing the canons of Saint Bavo to relocate.
Over time, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicist elements were added.
The cathedral has witnessed significant religious and political changes, including parish consolidations in recent years, now serving primarily as the diocesan cathedral.
Place Guide
Ghent Altarpiece (The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb)1432
A world-renowned polyptych painted by Jan van Eyck in 1432, considered a masterpiece of Flemish art. It depicts complex religious iconography central to Christian theology and is displayed in the Sacrament Chapel with modern visitor facilities.
Brabantine Gothic West Tower1462-1538
The cathedral’s 89-meter tall west tower was built between 1462 and 1538 in Brabantine Gothic style using limestone from Dilbeek. It features four large pinnacles and originally had a small spire that burned down.
Baroque High Altar1702-1782
An ornate altar built between 1702 and 1782 made from white and red veined marble, exemplifying Baroque craftsmanship within the cathedral.
Rococo Pulpit by Laurent Delvaux1741-1745
A richly decorated pulpit crafted between 1741 and 1745 from oak, gilded wood, and marble, with a wrought iron railing by J. Arens.
Choir Ambulatory and ChapelsEarly 15th century
The choir ambulatory features a collection of portraits of bishops and honorary members of the Saint Bavo chapter, along with several chapels dating from the early 15th century.
Contact
Phone: 09 269 20 45
