— Cityscapes

Cityscape: Ghent

Photos Dominique Brion

5 min

Photos Dominique Brion

5 min

Named Belgium’s unsung capital of cool by The Washington Post, Ghent’s a city that’s hard to pin down. It’s a cultural hub, a university city, a place with an incredible history and energy, yet it still feels quite cozy and small. We figured we’d ask photographer Dominique Brion – who grew up there – to show us the many faces of Ghent. He did so in his very own way and was kind enough to share his favorite spots with us as well.

Driving into Ghent on the fly-over that takes you off the highway is the best way to come home. You pass the football stadium on your right, the UCO building on your left and in the distance there’s the sight of the 3 iconic towers rising from the heart of the city. Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry & the Saint Nicholas Church. Magnets for tourists for sure, but anyone that’s ever lived in Ghent will tell you how amazing that view will always be.

Not too far from those towers, in the historical center, two vendors selling their own version of the cuberdon (a cone-shaped local candy) are yelling “verse cuberdons!”, almost right in front the legendary Tierenteyn shop – with its typical spicy smell. Here you’ll find the finest mustard known to man. The scents of roasted coffee, fresh pastries, or fresh flowers; they’re all very much part of the Ghent experience. Especially for those that get up extra early or stay out extra late.

Need a soundtrack? Put your headphones on and listen to Charlotte Adigery & Boris Pupul's "Topical Dancer" album as you walk around, and let the city unfold before you.