The 'Ghent Altarpiece' has been stolen or moved 13 times since its completion in 1432.
The cathedral was originally dedicated to Saint John the Baptist before becoming St Bavo's in 1540.
The 15th-century crypt contains wall paintings that date back to the 12th century.
The central panel of the Mystic Lamb was once confiscated by Napoleon and later hidden in an Austrian salt mine during World War II.
Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor, was baptized in this cathedral in 1500.
St Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent is the home of the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a 15th-century polyptych by Hubert and Jan van Eyck. The current structure features a 10th-century Romanesque crypt, which is the oldest preserved part of the cathedral. Its architecture transitions from Romanesque foundations to the Brabantine Gothic style seen in the choir and nave. The tower stands 89 meters high and offers a vantage point over the historic city center. The interior houses significant baroque elements, including a marble rood screen and the pulpit by Laurent Delvaux. The cathedral remains an active place of worship while functioning as a major repository for medieval Flemish art.
From the Sint-Baafsplein square, framing the cathedral tower alongside the adjacent Belfry.
Book tickets for the Mystic Lamb experience in advance, as time slots are strictly enforced.
Utilize the augmented reality glasses provided at the entrance to see the historical layers of the cathedral.
Check the digital visitor center before entering to understand the complex history of the altarpiece panels.
Do not skip the crypt; many visitors overlook the Romanesque foundations which provide the structural context for the site.
The cathedral is open daily, though access to the Mystic Lamb viewing area may be limited during specific liturgical services.
Maintain a quiet volume, remove hats, and refrain from using camera flash inside the chapel holding the altarpiece.
