Coupure, Protected canal in Ghent, Belgium.
Coupure is a waterway running through Ghent from the Leie River toward Groenevalleipark, with walking and cycling paths on both banks. The canal is bordered by historic townhouses and plane trees that line the water and create shaded passages for people moving along its length.
The waterway was created in 1753 to connect Ghent and Bruges for commercial trade and transport. Buildings soon rose along its banks, becoming a defining feature of the city's growth during the following centuries.
The canal area demonstrates the evolution of urban planning in Ghent, with plane trees lining the waterway and historical townhouses reflecting architectural developments.
The tram lines 1 and 4 stop at Gent Verlorenkost station near the canal, making it easy to reach on public transport. Dedicated cycling paths run the full length, so you can move at your own pace whether walking or biking.
The waterway sits at a specific elevation that kept water levels stable for shipping throughout the centuries. This careful positioning was crucial for the canal to function as a trade route between the two cities for so long.
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