Ghent

The first thing that catches your eye is the mighty "Het Gravensteen", which is also one of the great sights of Belgium. The castle was built by Philip of Alsace, who was also Count of Flanders. Initially, the castle served as a defence against enemies from both the south and the north, but in the 15th century it was converted into a prison, and a visit to the gloomy dungeons is certainly recommended along with a visit to the museum, which exhibits a lot of torture instruments, and here only the imagination sets the limits.

Belgium is a predominantly Catholic country, so churches are not far apart, each one more beautiful than the last, and Ghent is certainly no exception. Visit the beautiful Cathedral of St Bavon, built in the 12th century and arguably one of the most magnificent buildings in Flanders, which also hides artistic treasures of the highest calibre. There are a number of paintings by Rubens and the famous altarpiece "The Mystic Lamb", painted by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck in the mid-15th century. The large pulpit, which is placed in the middle of the church, is made of Italian marble and otherwise good Danish oak.

Of course, Ghent also offers culinary experiences with the best Flemish produce and a lively café life in the city. There are also many small shops in the centre, where it's not hard to find something interesting to take home.