St Bavo’s Cathedral Ghent Belgium: an Architectural Gem

After the tour of Belfry of Ghent we ventured into Ghent Cathedral. The main attraction to visit St Bavo’s Cathedral Ghent was to see the altarpiece – The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb – by van Eyck.

There was a small fee to enter the room to see it. Amazing art work, the only disappointing part was none of the tourists were allowed to photograph it. Though now I see a lot of pictures of it in the internet.

For over a thousand years this has been a place of prayer and Christian worship. Here are some pictures of the facade of the Ghent Cathedral, the door and some from the interior.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral History

In the heart of the 10th century, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, originally a modest wooden structure known as the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist, quietly emerged. Through the passage of time and the hands of dedicated craftsmen, this unassuming beginning evolved into the magnificent Gothic marvel that now graces the skyline of Ghent, towering at an impressive height of 89 meters.

From its humble origins, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, also known as Sint-Baafskathedraal, has stood witness to the ebb and flow of history, embodying the enduring spirit of the city. Its transformation reflects not only the architectural prowess of its builders but also the cultural and religious significance it holds for the people of Ghent and beyond.

Today, St. Bavo’s Cathedral stands as a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of those who contributed to its evolution, inviting visitors to marvel at its grandeur and to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of its storied past.

Visit to St. Bavo’s Cathedral Ghent

St. Bavo’s Cathedral, located in Ghent, Belgium, is definitely worth visiting for all history buffs, architecture and art lovers. The magnificent church houses some wonderful art treasures. The imposing structure has square tower topped with four small spires.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It has witnessed numerous events and played a significant role in the religious and cultural life of Ghent and Belgium. I was stunned to observe the cathedral’s architecture, showcasing beautiful Gothic elements both inside and out. The intricate details of the facade, spires, and interior design are worth capturing in lens.

I mentioned previously, one of the main highlights of the cathedral is the Ghent Altarpiece. It is known as the ‘Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ by the Van Eyck brothers. This masterpiece is considered one of the most important pieces of early Northern Renaissance art.

Door of Saint Bavo Cathedral Ghent

Altarpiece of Ghent Cathedral

Let me tell you about the Ghent Altarpiece—it’s got quite the story! This masterpiece has been through wars, fires, and even thefts. Can you believe it? After World War II, it found its way back to the Vijd chapel in Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. Then, in 1986, it made its move to the Villa Chapel.

Hubert van Eyck, who’s hailed as the greatest painter ever, kicked off this incredible work. His brother Jan, who wasn’t too shabby himself, completed the task as per Joos Vijd’s request. Joos Vijd was all like, “Here you go, guys, take it on May 6, 1432. Check out what they’ve pulled off!”

The twist is: it’s still a mystery who painted what part. Hubert? Jan? Who knows! On that very May 6, 1432, it made its grand debut in the chapel of Joos Vijd and Elisabeth Borluut, two big names in Ghent.

Can you imagine the tales this altarpiece could tell? Wars, fires, thefts—it’s seen it all! And yet, it still stands tall, captivating everyone who lays eyes on it.

St Bavo’s Cathedral Ghent sculptures on facade

Restoration of Altarpiece

In 2012, a significant restoration endeavor commenced on the renowned Altarpiece of Ghent Cathedral, a process slated to conclude by the end of 2024. Executed under the meticulous care of the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage at the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent, the restoration received crucial financial backing from both the Flemish Government and the esteemed Baillet-Latour Fund.

The restoration initiative aimed to address the aging effects on the altarpiece, including the presence of old, hardened varnish layers and over paintings accumulated over centuries. Through a painstaking process, conservators delicately removed these layers to reveal the original paintwork beneath, a feat that hadn’t been achieved since the 16th century.

In future viewers will get the rare opportunity to behold the altarpiece in its truest form, showcasing the genius of the Van Eyck brothers as never before seen in modern times.

Inscription Riddle Solved

I later read up the inscription riddle has been solved, the inscription on the cloths of honour behind Mary and John the Baptist in the Ghent Altarpiece has finally been deciphered after centuries.  Through close examination of X-ray images at three well-preserved spots, experts uncovered the name “Lubrect” (an old spelling for ‘Hubrecht’) and the date of his death. This revelation suggests that Jan Van Eyck painted the upper register of the altarpiece as a homage to his late brother. Mary and John the Baptist, depicted praying with Christ, not only intercede for humanity but also for the soul of Jan’s brother.

Moreover, the upper register, constructed differently from the lower one, serves as an extension by Jan Van Eyck of the lower register left unfinished by Hubrecht. This discovery unveils the presence of two altarpieces, serving as a testament to the deep bond between the brothers. The scientific study conducted by Helene Verougstraete and Wim Verbaal sheds light on this significant revelation in the art world.

Stained glass Windows

Once inside I was surrounded by impressive stained-glass windows. A sunny day, with light filtering in through them will be a sight to behold!

Crypt

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, through the lens of Augmented Reality, explore the crypt of St. Bavo’s Cathedral. It is like a travel through time to the captivating saga of the Ghent Altarpiece, experiencing pivotal moments as if they were firsthand witnesses. With the option of donning AR glasses or wielding a tablet, participants are presented with a choice of nine languages to enhance their understanding and engagement. The highlight of this immersive experience culminates in a face-to-face encounter with the iconic Ghent Altarpiece, a moment that transcends time and space.

About Saint Bavo

Saint Bavo, also known as Saint Baaf or Saint Bavon, a saint in the Christian tradition lived during the 7th century in Belgium. Bavo was originally a nobleman named Allowin van Haspengouw, who lived a life of luxury and excess.

Legend has it that after the death of his wife, Bavo experienced a profound spiritual transformation. He renounced his wealth and devoted himself to a life of prayer, penance, and service to the poor. Eventually, he became known for his piety and asceticism. he was venerated as a saint after his death. He is particularly revered in the region of Flanders, where his relics are housed in this St. Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium.

Saint Bavo is often depicted in religious art and iconography, symbolizing repentance, conversion, and the transformative power of faith. His feast day is celebrated on October 1st in the Roman Catholic Church.

Tickets and Timings:

Open Timings: It is open everyday 8.30 AM to 5 PM
Ghent Cathedral Altarpiece Tickets: Adult – 12.50 Euro, Children 6 to 12 yrs – 8 Euro, Children below 6 – free.
Visit time limit: only for 25 min

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The observer and the observed! Who was who! The tourist observing the saint’s statue or the saint’s spirit observing the tourist?

FAQ questions and answers on St. Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent:

What is the history of St Bavo Cathedral?

St. Bavo’s Cathedral, originally a small wooden chapel built in the 10th century, evolved over time into the magnificent Gothic structure we see today. It has witnessed significant events in Ghent’s history and has played a central role in the city’s religious and cultural life.

What are the main highlights of Cathedral of St Bavo?

One of the primary highlights is the Ghent Altarpiece, also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, painted by the Van Eyck brothers. Other notable features include its Gothic architecture, impressive interior, and historical artifacts.

How can I visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral?

St. Bavo’s Cathedral is located in the heart of Ghent’s city center. Visitors can easily reach it by walking, cycling, or using public transportation. The cathedral is open to the public for visits, and guided tours are available for those who wish to learn more about its history and architecture.

Is there an entrance fee to visit St. Bavo Cathedral?

While entry to the cathedral itself is generally free, there is a fee for altarpiece. Special exhibitions, guided tours, or access to certain areas within the cathedral too cost some fee. It’s advisable to check the cathedral’s official website or inquire locally for the latest information on fees and visiting hours.

What is the significance of the Ghent Altarpiece housed in St. Bavo’s Cathedral?

The Ghent Altarpiece is considered one of the most important works of art in European history. It is renowned for its intricate detail, symbolism, and technical mastery. The altarpiece’s significance extends beyond its artistic merit, as it also reflects the religious and cultural context of its time.

Are there any special events or services held at St. Bavo’s Cathedral?

St. Bavo’s Cathedral hosts various events throughout the year, including religious services, concerts, and cultural exhibitions. Visitors can check the cathedral’s event calendar or inquire locally to find out about upcoming events and activities.

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