St Nicholas' Church
A magnificent Gothic church in Ghent, known for its serene atmosphere, stunning stained glass, and historical significance.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
St Nicholas' Church
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Gothic church in Ghent, known for its serene atmosphere, stunning stained glass, and historical significance.
"A stunning medieval cathedral with impressive Gothic architecture that houses the statues of the 13 apostles."
Free Entry, Paid Sections
The main church is free to enter! A small fee grants access to the very front sections. :ticket:
Peaceful Escape
Find a moment of calm amidst the city bustle. Great for quiet reflection or prayer. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the stunning Scheldt Gothic style, a testament to medieval craftsmanship. Admire the soaring arches and intricate details.

Stained Glass Windows
Throughout the Nave
Be captivated by the vibrant stained glass, depicting biblical scenes like the life of Mary and the crucifixion of Jesus.

Statues of the Apostles
Interior
Discover the detailed statues of the 13 apostles, including a notable depiction of Judas.

Romantic Organ
Near the Altar
Appreciate the historical significance of Belgium's important Romantic organ, built by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Exploring Ghent's Heart
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church & National Shrine located in New York City. It was designed as a modern interpretation of Hagia Sophia by Santiago Calatrava.
Free Entry, Paid Sections
The main church is free to enter! A small fee grants access to the very front sections. :ticket:
Peaceful Escape
Find a moment of calm amidst the city bustle. Great for quiet reflection or prayer. :pray:
St Nicholas in NYC, anyone been?
Central Location
Easily accessible near Graslei and Korenlei, perfect for sightseeing. :world_map:
Architectural Details
Don't miss the intricate statues, altar design, and beautiful stained glass. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry, Paid Sections
The main church is free to enter! A small fee grants access to the very front sections. :ticket:
Peaceful Escape
Find a moment of calm amidst the city bustle. Great for quiet reflection or prayer. :pray:
Central Location
Easily accessible near Graslei and Korenlei, perfect for sightseeing. :world_map:
Architectural Details
Don't miss the intricate statues, altar design, and beautiful stained glass. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Nicholas' Church for its impressive Gothic architecture and the serene atmosphere it offers, even in the heart of a busy city. The beautiful stained glass windows and detailed statues are frequently highlighted as must-see features. While the main church is free, a small fee applies to access the front sections.
"I really enjoyed visiting Saint Nicholas’ Church in Ghent while I was in Belgium.
It's easy to find right in the middle of the city, even amongst the chaos with trams, bikes, shops, and lots of people all around! As soon as I walked into this massive Gothic church, I felt an immediate sense of peace.
Inside, it’s not overly decorated like so many churches in Europe, but if you look around, you’ll notice lots of details in the statues of saints, stained glass, and the alter itself is beautifully designed.
I didn’t stay long, but even my short visit left an impression. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop, breathe, and just take in the calm. I was thankful to be able to say a little prayer of thanks for the amazing vacation I was so fortunate to be experiencing in Europe 🙏😊"
How it is Liz
"I think those who live here will not die. There is a McDonald's right across from it. 5 or 6 historical monuments next to each other must be seen. There is a boutique restaurant that makes Pastrami right across the street, the taste is legendary."
Aktan Andre VARLI
"A stunning medieval cathedral with impressive Gothic architecture that houses the statues of the 13 apostles (including Judas). The cathedral also houses colourful glass stained windows and amazing paintings. A must visit place when you visit Ghent."
Gee Ong-Vasile
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Nicholas' Church is located centrally in Ghent, Belgium, near the Graslei and Korenlei. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center. If arriving by public transport, trams frequently pass through the area. Be mindful of tram and bike traffic as it's a busy intersection.
Yes, it's very easy to find right in the middle of the city, amidst the activity of trams, bikes, and shops. Its prominent Gothic architecture makes it a clear landmark.
Walking is ideal to soak in the city's atmosphere. The church is situated in a lively area, so be prepared for pedestrian and vehicle movement.
While direct parking is limited due to its central location, several public parking garages are available within a short walking distance in Ghent.
Absolutely! Many city walking tours of Ghent include St. Nicholas' Church as a key stop due to its historical significance and central location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The main part of St. Nicholas' Church is free to enter, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and atmosphere. There is a paid section for access to the very front of the church.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Generally, it's open during daylight hours on most days.
Photography is usually permitted inside St. Nicholas' Church, but it's always respectful to check for any posted signs or ask church officials. Avoid using flash photography, especially during services.
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's advisable to dress respectfully out of consideration for it being a place of worship. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
Yes, there is a nice little gift shop located within or near St. Nicholas' Church where you can purchase souvenirs.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
St. Nicholas' Church is a prime example of the Scheldt Gothic style, a distinctive regional variation of Gothic architecture that developed along the river Scheldt. Construction began in the early 13th century.
Inside, you'll find impressive Gothic architecture, detailed statues of saints (including the 13 apostles), beautiful stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes, and a significant Romantic organ. The altar is also beautifully designed.
Despite its central location, many visitors find St. Nicholas' Church to be a place of peace and calm. It's described as a place that makes you stop, breathe, and take in the serenity.
Founded in the early 13th century, it has historically been the church of merchants and traders. The interior's richness is due to the many guilds that had chapels within the church.
Mass times can vary. It's recommended to check the church's schedule for specific times if you wish to attend a service.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options very close by. A McDonald's is located directly across from the church, and reviews mention a boutique restaurant serving legendary pastrami nearby.
You can find a range of options, from fast food like McDonald's to more specialized eateries. The mention of a pastrami restaurant suggests diverse culinary offerings in the vicinity.
The church's central location means it's surrounded by amenities, making it very convenient to grab a bite before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its impressive Gothic facade, is great for wide shots. Inside, focus on the stained glass windows, the detailed statues, and the grand organ. The play of light through the windows is particularly photogenic.
Tripod use might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging the interior. It's best to check with church staff or look for signage regarding photography equipment.
Natural light filters through the large stained glass windows, creating beautiful, often colorful, illumination. The ambient light can be lower in some areas, so a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial.
Definitely! The intricate carvings on the statues, the patterns in the stained glass, the soaring arches of the nave, and the detailed facade are all excellent subjects for photography.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful light as the sun streams through the windows. However, the church is visually striking at any time of day due to its impressive architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scheldt Gothic Style
The church's development over centuries means it also incorporates later influences, but its core identity is rooted in this distinctive Flemish Gothic tradition. The guilds played a significant role in its embellishment, each contributing to chapels and decorative features, reflecting the wealth and importance of Ghent's merchant class during the medieval period. This historical context adds another layer to appreciating the church's enduring presence.
The Cavaillé-Coll Organ
The advocacy for a new, model organ in Belgium by figures like François-Joseph Fétis led to Cavaillé-Coll being commissioned. The organ installed in St. Nicholas' Church was notable for being the first CC organ in Belgium, a significant technical advancement at the time. Its rich tonal palette and historical importance make it a key feature for organ enthusiasts and a testament to the church's musical heritage.
A Place of Peace and Reflection
The church's design, with its soaring architecture and the gentle diffusion of light through the stained glass, contributes to this tranquil ambiance. It's a space where one can pause, breathe, and appreciate the historical and spiritual significance of the surroundings. For many, it's an opportunity to offer a prayer of thanks or simply to absorb the quietude.
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