The social media user claimed to have found the most underrated city in Europe, sharing a short video of the destination, which is known for its incredible architecture
Praise has been lavished on an historic city dating back to the Middle Ages with a population of just 560,000 people and the largest designated cyclist area in Europe. In a short video on YouTube, @MarkEarthExplored shared a video of “a true hidden gem”.
With just 60 followers to his name, the intrepid explorer exclaimed in his latest offering: “I found the most underrated city in Europe.” Clocking in over 130 likes, the footage takes viewers on a visual jaunt through Ghent, the jewel of Belgium’s East Flanders province and its third-largest urban sprawl.
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Steeped in antiquity as one of the nation’s eldest cities, Ghent boasts a tapestry of historical richness and awe-inspiring architecture epitomised by the towering Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, peaking at 292 feet.
Ghent’s treasure trove of landmarks features The Groot Vleeshuis, a grandiose former market hall, the ancient Gravensteen castle harking back to 1180, and the sacred walls of St Elisabeth Church, nestled within one of the city’s three beguinages.
If bricks and mortar history isn’t your cup of tea, Ghent has a smorgasbord of museums to tickle your fancy, reports the Express.
The prestigious Museum voor Schone Kunsten houses a staggering array of artwork amounting to 9,000 pieces dating as far back as the Middle Ages, majorly spotlighting Flemish masterpieces beside those of other European virtuosos.
Meanwhile, the Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst (SMAK), or City Museum for Contemporary Art in layman’s terms, parades a dazzling permanent exhibit featuring scene-stealing pieces from icons like Andy Warhol and Francis Bacon.
Alternatively, food enthusiasts can indulge in some of Ghent’s mouth-watering specialties, such as the sweet, cinnamon-spiced “mastellen” or “Saint Hubert bread” bagels.
A mastel is a soft, bagel-like treat flavoured with cinnamon and sugar, offering a delightful taste experience.
Another local delight is the praline chocolates, also known as cuberdons or “neuzekes” (little noses), which are cone-shaped and filled with a sweet raspberry-flavoured filling.
Visitors can easily reach Ghent by plane, train, or car. By train, the journey from London takes approximately three hours, while a flight takes around one hour.
Driving from London to Ghent takes roughly 4.5 hours, although the duration may vary depending on the specific starting location.
