St Bavo's Abbey, Ghent

St Bavo's Abbey is a monastery ruin in Ghent where 12th-century stone walls and arches remain among green spaces. The site features an octagonal lavatorium from that era, preserved as one of its oldest standing elements.

The abbey was founded in the 7th century by Saint Amandus and served as a spiritual center for centuries. It was destroyed in 1540 when Emperor Charles V ordered its demolition to punish Ghent for its uprising against his rule.

The Lapidary Museum holds tombstones of important people, including Hubert van Eyck, the brother of painter Jan van Eyck. Visitors can read names and connect with those who once lived and worked within these walls.

The grounds are accessible between April and October with limited weekend hours. Visitors should check ahead for opening times and to see if guided tours with local groups are available.

Hornbeam columns rising five meters high trace the outline of the former church, while a concrete stage now occupies where the altar once stood. This blend of ancient foundation and modern space creates an unusual setting for a historic site.

Location: Ghent

Inception: 7 century

Founders: Saint Bavo

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Fee: No

Address: Voorhoutkaai

Opening Hours: April-October Friday-Sunday 14:00-18:00

Website: http://cageweb.be/cageweb_pages/GMAET.shtml

GPS coordinates: 51.05389,3.73611

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44