St Michael's Church - Church of St. Michael and St. Anthony
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St Michael's Church

4.5
·1k reviews·Gent, Belgium

A magnificent late Gothic church in Ghent, housing masterpieces by Van Dyck and a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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St Michael's Church - Church of St. Michael and St. Anthony

St Michael's Church

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent late Gothic church in Ghent, housing masterpieces by Van Dyck and a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A stunning gothic cathedral with impressive interior, structure, and beautiful colourful glass stained windows."

Vertical photo
TIP

Quiet Reflection Space

Find a moment of peace and quiet reflection amidst Ghent's hustle and bustle. :pray:

Admire the Artwork

Don't miss the impressive Christian artwork, including paintings by Anthony Van Dyck. :art:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Grandeur

Gothic Grandeur

Nave

Marvel at the late Gothic architecture, a blend of medieval severity and neo-Gothic details, built from the 15th to 19th centuries.

Van Dyck Masterpieces

Van Dyck Masterpieces

Chapels

Admire the stunning paintings by the renowned artist Anthony Van Dyck, adding to the church's artistic treasures.

Baroque Pulpit

Baroque Pulpit

Nave

Be captivated by the dramatic wood and marble sculpture depicting the vocation of apostles Peter and Andrew.

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Chancel

Behold the beautiful, colorful stained glass windows that cast a serene light throughout the interior.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

To truly soak in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the Christian artwork, aim for quieter times. Avoid peak tourist hours to enjoy the light flowing in and experience a moment of quiet reflection amidst Ghent's bustle. Reddit

Photography Etiquette

While photography is generally allowed, be mindful of others and the sacred nature of the space. Some visitors inquire about using professional equipment, so check for any specific guidelines on the day of your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Religious or not, St. Michaels Abbey is worth the trip.

Quiet Reflection Space

Find a moment of peace and quiet reflection amidst Ghent's hustle and bustle. :pray:

Admire the Artwork

Don't miss the impressive Christian artwork, including paintings by Anthony Van Dyck. :art:

Architectural Gem

Appreciate the late Gothic and neo-Gothic architectural details. :building_construction:

Check for Events

You might get lucky and catch a performance, like an orchestra or band! :musical_score:

Tips

from all over the internet

Quiet Reflection Space

Find a moment of peace and quiet reflection amidst Ghent's hustle and bustle. :pray:

Admire the Artwork

Don't miss the impressive Christian artwork, including paintings by Anthony Van Dyck. :art:

Architectural Gem

Appreciate the late Gothic and neo-Gothic architectural details. :building_construction:

Check for Events

You might get lucky and catch a performance, like an orchestra or band! :musical_score:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Michael's Church for its stunning Gothic architecture and the serene atmosphere created by the light filtering through its beautiful stained glass windows. The impressive collection of Christian artwork, including paintings by Anthony Van Dyck and the dramatic baroque pulpit, are frequently highlighted as must-see features. While generally free to enter, some may inquire about photography rules for professional equipment.

"Beautiful place to visit & have a moment of quiet reflection while Ghent hustles & bustles all around you. The light flows in creating a serene atmosphere while you appreciate the Christian artwork. Just what you need today."

Foster Walker

"A stunning gothic cathedral with impressive interior, structure, and beautiful colourful glass stained windows. It also houses the amazing paintings of the famous painter Anthony Van Dyck and it has one of the crown thorns of Jesus.
A must visit place when you visit Ghent."

Gee Ong-Vasile

"⛪ Sint-Michielskerk, Ghent – Sound & Stone

In the middle of Ghent stands the late Gothic Sint-Michielskerk - a building built from the 15th to the 19th century. Century and today shows a rare mixture of medieval severity and neo-Gothic details.

🎼 Above the entrance stands the organ of Pierre Van Peteghem (1853), embedded in a neo-Gothic case. Their sound combines French-romantic fullness with Flemish craftsmanship. It is crowned with an allegorical figure that symbolically watches over the music.

🎨 The baroque pulpit tells the vocation of the apostles Peter and Andrew in a dramatic wood and marble sculpture - a work that seems almost alive.

Those who linger here will feel how architecture, sculpture and music merge into a single experience.

🛍️ You love historical architecture as much as I do? Then my online shop might be just the thing you’ve been looking for for a long time:"

Mazhar Abbas

What People Like

Stunning Gothic architecture
Serene atmosphere
Impressive artwork

What People Dislike

Occasional photography restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Michael's Church is centrally located in Ghent, making it easily accessible on foot from many parts of the city. If you're arriving by public transport, tram lines frequently stop nearby. It's a prominent landmark, so it's hard to miss! Reddit

Yes, St. Michael's Church is situated in the heart of Ghent, close to many other historical sites and attractions. You can easily combine a visit with exploring the city center. Reddit

Walking through the charming streets of Ghent is the most rewarding way to approach St. Michael's Church, allowing you to appreciate the city's atmosphere. Reddit

While parking directly at the church is limited due to its central location, several public parking garages are available within a short walking distance in Ghent's city center. Reddit

Ghent is a very bike-friendly city, and cycling to St. Michael's Church is a great option. There are usually bike racks available nearby for secure parking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to St. Michael's Church is generally free, allowing visitors to explore its magnificent interior and admire the artwork. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but St. Michael's Church is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the most current schedule before your visit, especially on holidays. Reddit

While general entry is free, there might be separate charges for specific exhibitions or access to certain areas, though this is not commonly the case for the main church. Reddit

Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's important to be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors. Check for any specific signage regarding photography, especially with professional equipment. Reddit

The main areas of St. Michael's Church are generally accessible, but some older structures may have limitations. It's recommended to contact the church directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Key highlights include the stunning late Gothic architecture, the impressive baroque pulpit, beautiful stained glass windows, and significant paintings by Anthony Van Dyck. Reddit

Yes, St. Michael's Church is a Catholic church, also known as Sint-Michielskerk in Dutch. Reddit

Services are held regularly at St. Michael's Church. You can check their schedule for 'st michael's church service today' or upcoming masses if you wish to attend. Reddit

Built from the 15th to the 19th century, it represents a significant example of late Gothic and neo-Gothic architecture in Ghent, showcasing a blend of styles and artistic periods. Reddit

While not always advertised, guided tours might be available, especially for groups. Inquiring at the church or through local tourist information can provide details. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Absolutely! St. Michael's Church is in Ghent's vibrant city center, surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries offering a wide range of culinary options. Reddit

You'll find everything from traditional Belgian cuisine (like waffles and fries) to international dishes. Many places offer quick bites or more formal dining experiences. Reddit

Yes, Ghent has many affordable options, including sandwich shops, bakeries, and casual eateries that are perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Reddit

Numerous cafes are located just steps away from the church, perfect for a coffee break or a light snack while exploring Ghent. Reddit

Some restaurants and cafes in the vicinity may offer views of the church, especially those located on the main squares or along the canals nearby. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on capturing the grandeur of the nave, the intricate details of the baroque pulpit, the vibrant stained glass windows, and the Van Dyck paintings. The interplay of light is also a key element. Reddit

Tripod use might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging the delicate flooring. It's best to check for specific rules upon arrival. Reddit

Late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour light filtering through the windows, creating a serene atmosphere. Weekday mornings are also good for fewer crowds. Reddit

Yes, the church's imposing facade looks impressive from various angles in the surrounding squares. The canals nearby also offer picturesque views with the church in the background. Reddit

Given the potentially low light, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod is beneficial. Experiment with aperture for depth of field on artwork and wide-angle lenses for the architecture. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Michael's Church offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families. While it's a place for quiet reflection, the sheer scale of the Gothic architecture can awe children. Point out the dramatic pulpit sculptures that look like characters from a story, and the colorful stained glass windows that create a magical light show. It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to historical art and architecture in a less formal setting than a typical museum. Reddit

Keep the visit relatively short to maintain their attention, focusing on a few key highlights like the pulpit and the Van Dyck paintings. The central location means you can easily combine it with other family-friendly activities in Ghent, like exploring the canals or enjoying Belgian treats. Remember to encourage quiet voices and respectful behavior, turning it into a learning experience about different cultures and history. Reddit

⛪ Religious Visitors & Pilgrims

For those seeking a spiritual connection, St. Michael's Church offers a profound experience. As a Catholic church, it provides a space for prayer and contemplation, with regular services available. The presence of relics, such as the reported crown thorn of Jesus, adds a significant draw for pilgrims. The serene atmosphere, enhanced by the beautiful artwork and architecture, fosters a sense of peace and devotion. Reddit

Visitors interested in specific prayers like the 'st michael prayer' or 'st michael prayer of protection' may find solace and inspiration within its sacred walls. The church's history and its dedication to Saint Michael, a prominent figure in Christian tradition, make it a meaningful destination for those on a religious journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels of St. Michael's Church

St. Michael's Church, or Sint-Michielskerk, is a testament to centuries of architectural evolution. Construction began in the 15th century and continued into the 19th, resulting in a fascinating blend of styles. The church primarily showcases late Gothic elements, characterized by its soaring ceilings, pointed arches, and intricate stonework. However, it also incorporates neo-Gothic details, particularly in its later additions and renovations, giving it a unique and layered aesthetic. This mix of medieval severity and later embellishments makes it a captivating structure for architecture enthusiasts. Reddit

The interior is equally impressive, featuring a magnificent organ by Pierre Van Peteghem, housed in a neo-Gothic case. The organ's sound is described as a blend of French-romantic fullness and Flemish craftsmanship. Another striking feature is the baroque pulpit, a dramatic wood and marble sculpture that vividly depicts the vocation of apostles Peter and Andrew, appearing almost alive with its dynamic composition. These elements, combined with the overall architectural design, create a powerful and immersive experience for visitors. Reddit

Artistic Treasures Within

Beyond its architectural splendor, St. Michael's Church is a repository of significant artworks. It proudly houses several paintings by the renowned Flemish Baroque artist Anthony Van Dyck. These masterpieces contribute immensely to the church's artistic value, offering visitors a chance to admire the work of a master painter in situ. The church is also noted for its beautiful and colorful stained glass windows, which bathe the interior in a serene and ethereal light, enhancing the contemplative atmosphere. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the serene atmosphere created by the light flowing through the windows, complementing the Christian artwork on display. The church is also said to house one of the crown thorns of Jesus, adding a layer of religious significance for many pilgrims and visitors. The combination of these artistic elements—from grand paintings to delicate glasswork—makes St. Michael's Church a destination for both art lovers and those seeking spiritual reflection. Reddit

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