The street originated as a space for art during the 1996 Gentse Feesten festival.
The local government maintains a 'tolerance policy' that keeps the area legal for artists.
The layers of paint on the walls are several centimeters thick due to decades of repeated application.
It is one of the few places in Belgium where unauthorized street art is officially welcomed by city management.
The alley serves as a barometer for current local urban art styles and political discourse.
Werregarenstraat, widely known as Graffiti Street, is a narrow pedestrian alley in Ghent where local authorities permit and encourage continuous street art creation. The walls, floor, and even some pipes are constantly repainted by street artists and tourists alike. Since the 1990s, the street has served as a legal canvas, transforming it into an ever-changing outdoor gallery. The space is maintained through the city’s tolerance policy rather than formal curation. Because of the constant cycle of layering, the visual appearance of the alley changes on a daily basis. It connects the Hoogpoort and Onderbergen streets in the heart of the city's historic center. As a living exhibition, it represents a core element of Ghent's modern alternative art scene.
The center of the alley where the convergence of layered spray paint creates a textured, vibrant backdrop.
Visit during the daylight hours for the best visibility of the intricate layers.
Avoid touching the walls, as fresh paint is applied daily and can ruin clothing.
Check both the walls and the ground, as the pavement is also covered in art.
Do not expect to see the same artwork twice, as new graffiti is layered over existing pieces constantly.
Wear sturdy shoes that you do not mind getting dirty; avoid wearing expensive fabrics.
