Church of Saint Michael, Ghent, Belgium

The original church of Saint Michael dates from the 11th century. It was twice destroyed by fire in the 12th century and was later rebuilt in the late Gothic style, probably starting in 1140. This unfinished church was partially destroyed during a religious conflict in 1579.
Reconstruction only started in 1623 and this time the intention was to give the church an impressive 134 metres tall spire tower, but a shortage of money left it unfinished at only 24 metres tall.
The church houses a number of Rococo and Neoclassic statues as well as 18th century and Baroque paintings, the better known being the "Christ on the Cross" by Anthony Van Dyck.

Opening hours: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on Sundays; from Oct. to Mar. is only open on Sat.
Entrance free

 Back to Ghent











Local: Sint-Michielsplein 4, 9000 Gent, Bélgica

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