|
GHENT
Ghent is the fourth largest city of Belgium with about
250.000 inhabitants. It is not as big as Antwerp but
bigger than Bruges. It is also less famous among
tourists than the often praised Bruges.
However, for some people Ghent is the real diamond of
Flanders and Belgium. In a unique way, Ghent has managed
to preserve its medieval power while keeping up with the
times. The city center alone is a showcase of medieval
Flemish wealth and commercial success. Modern Ghent
certainly cannot be overlooked in Belgium. The city has
an important harbor, thanks to the canal Ghent-Terneuzen
which allows sea-going vessels to bring their products
to the city and its industrial hinterland. Because of
the central location in the country, the 'Flanders
Technology' fair can regularly be organized. The Belgian
State University (RUG = Rijksuniversiteit Gent)
continues to grow in importance. The presence of so many
young people and students has turned Ghent into an
important Flemish cultural center.
Ghent is also the flower city of Belgium. Flower growers
from the region around Ghent sell their beautiful
begonia's and azalea's all over the world. Every 5 years
the successful 'Gentse Floraliën" ( Ghent Flower Show)
attracts thousands to the city.The tourist will not have
eyes enough to admire the awesome architectural wealth ,
which offers a splendid combination of impressiveness
and idyllic charm of the proud and (in former times)
often rebellious city of Ghent. |
|
|