BELGIUM - CITIES :
Brussels -
Bruges -
Ghent -
Antwerp -
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GHENT
Ghent is the fourth largest
city of Belgium (approx.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 Gent 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 Gent-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.
