Ghent
As the capital city of Oost Vlaanderen, or Eastern Flanders, Ghent is a town with a rich historical past. Only approximately thirty kilometers from Brussels, Ghent has an impressive history dating back to the year 900. During the Middle Ages Ghent was one of the richest cities in Europe and home to the dynasty of the counts of Flanders. The counts of Flanders began construction and finished a large castle in the city during the 1100's.
Ghent is still considered one of Europe's most successful industrial towns. Fortunately it has also managed to keep it magnificent heritage and culture alive and well during the city's modernization. Visitors to Ghent will find a trendy city with a small village, medieval personality.
Tourists in Ghent can visit the castle of the Flanders counts, Gravensteen. Built almost one thousand years ago, the castle's stone walls are intimidating even today. The castle itself is not considered to be castle from a fairy tale. The counts of Flanders ruled the city with an iron hand and wanted the castle to remind the villagers of their power over them. The castle was also used as a fort and a prison in the past. Torture devices from the Middle Ages are just one of the many displays you will see on a castle tour.
A more welcoming historical Ghent building is the town hall, Stadhuis. The hall was built several centuries ago and has been the site of many important political religious ceremonies.
Visitors to Ghent will find much to do no matter what time of year they visit the city. The city welcomes its visitors with huge smiles and works hard to make sure your holiday is memorable.
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