In the 14th century, Ghent was one of Europe’s biggest cities. Today, Ghent is the fourth largest city of Belgium with about 250.000 inhabitants. The tourist will admire the awesome architectural wealth, which offers a splendid combination of impressiveness and idyllic charm of the proud of Ghent. It is paradise for the idle ambler, with numerous museums, beautiful squares, luxurious cafes and fascinating architecture. Belfort (the Belfry) is an important landmark in the center of Ghent. The belfry at Ghent is a fortified guard tower. The original tower was built from wood in the 14th century, and was replaced by a stone structure in 1913. It is 320 feet high. Since 1378 there has been a dragon at the top of the tower. This is a symbol of Ghent’s freedom and power. A dragon is supposed to never sleep, so it is always looking out from the top of the tower, protecting the citizens from danger. The remains of the original dragon and a later replacement are displayed on one of the floors. St Bavo’s Cathedral is located in Sint-Baafsplein, one of the squares next to the Belfort. There has been a cathedral here for over 1000 years, but most of the Gothic structure that can be seen today was built over a 300 year period starting in 1290. Entry to the cathedral is free, but visitors should be quiet and respect it as a place of worship (for the Catholic religion). The cathedral contains a famous oil painting in 12 panels: this is “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”, painted by Jan van Eyck (possibly assisted by his brother) in the 15th century. The renowned Museum voor Schone Kunsten has a first-rate collection of old masters, housing works by nearly every great Flemish artist. Discover the life of eighteenth century Ghent in the period rooms of the Museum voor Volkskunde, which is located in a series of restored almshouses. Wander the surrounding lanes and narrow streets and get a feel for the Ghent of the past. Ghent is also the flower city of Belgium. Flower growers from the region around Ghent sell their beautiful begonia’s and azalea’s all over the world. Every 5 years the successful Ghent Flower Show attracts thousands to the city.