Ghent’s architecture from timber canopy to abbey

Why go

This route is for visitors who enjoy reading a city through its buildings. The open City Pavilion introduces contemporary design before De Krook brings you to the river. The Winter Circus and VIERNULVIER show different ways older cultural buildings are used today; enter public spaces only where access permits. Continue south for the Boekentoren exterior, then finish at St Peter’s Abbey and its garden. Check current public hours for De Krook, the Winter Circus and the abbey garden before choosing this full sequence.

The route, stop by stop

World itinerary estimate: 150–310 min

1. 01

   Main stop · 15–20 min

   City pavilion

   Study the open timber-roofed pavilion that brings contemporary design into Ghent’s historic civic heart. The structure frames older landmarks without copying their Gothic language.

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2. Walk · 12 min · Estimated

   02

   Main stop · 40–55 min

   De Krook

   Enter the contemporary library and observe how the angular building reconnects the city to the Scheldt. The public library is also a piece of contemporary architecture.

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3. Walk · 2 min · Estimated

   03

   Main stop · 20–30 min

   The Winter Circus

   Explore the reused circus building and its circular interior, where a former entertainment venue now hosts public activity. The reused building makes the story of the circus visible in a new public setting.

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4. Walk · 2 min · Estimated

   04

   Main stop · 25–40 min

   Arts Centre VIERNULVIER

   See culture inside the former socialist arts complex, with events adding value when timed to your visit. The architecture itself recalls the building’s civic past, while the current programme determines any indoor experience.

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5. Walk · 7 min · Estimated

   05

   Main stop · 20–25 min

   Boekentoren

   Ghent University's Boekentoren adds a Modernist book tower to a skyline better known for medieval spires. Its architecture is visible from outside, while the rooftop panorama needs special access.

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6. Walk · 6 min · Estimated

   06

   Main stop · 30–50 min

   St Peter’s Abbey and garden

   Walk the surviving rooms of St Peter’s Abbey, then step into its sheltered garden of herbs, fruit trees and grapevines. The free corridors and courtyard link the former monastery to a garden reconstructed from historical models.

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