Hello everyone, our journey through Belgium continues. Today, we are going to explore two shining gems of Belgium: Antwerp and Ghent. If you haven’t read my previous articles about Brussels and Bruges, I highly recommend you do so. Now, let’s embark on this new adventure together!
Antwerp: The Diamond City
Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city and one of the world’s most important diamond trading centers. It’s a place where history and modernity intertwine, and art and commerce coexist, creating a microcosm of a bustling world.
Diamond District: Sparkling Brilliance
I booked my train tickets to Antwerp early in the morning through Trip.com. Upon arrival, I headed straight to the famous Diamond District. This area is home to 90% of the world’s rough diamond trade and 50% of the polished diamond trade, making it the heart of the global diamond industry. Walking along the streets of the Diamond District, you can see workshop after workshop and store after store, displaying dazzling diamonds in their windows. I even had the opportunity to observe the entire diamond-cutting process in one of the workshops, witnessing the transformation of an ordinary stone into a sparkling diamond through exquisite craftsmanship.
Antwerp Cathedral: Traces of Time
Antwerp Cathedral is Belgium’s largest Gothic cathedral and one of Antwerp’s landmarks. Standing tall in the sky for almost 500 years, it has witnessed the historical changes of Antwerp. The cathedral’s bell tower, reaching a height of 123 meters, is the tallest church tower in Belgium, offering panoramic views of Antwerp’s city center. Inside the cathedral, numerous masterpieces of art are hidden, including several paintings by Rubens, each one displaying exquisite composition and vibrant colors.
Ghent: Fusion of History and Modernity
Leaving Antwerp behind, I arrived in Ghent. This city is known as the “Jewel of Europe” and boasts a rich historical heritage while maintaining a vibrant modern atmosphere, creating a perfect blend of the past and the present.
Ghent Castle: Echoes of the Middle Ages
My first stop in Ghent was Ghent Castle. Built in the 12th century, it was once one of the most powerful castles in Belgium. Here, I felt the ambiance of the Middle Ages, as if I could hear the echoes of that era. The castle’s architectural structure has been well-preserved, featuring walls, moats, drawbridges, and fortifications. I also had the chance to witness a medieval knight performance within the castle, transporting me back in time.
Ghent Museum: Temple of Art
Next, I visited the Ghent Museum. This museum houses an extensive collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Here, I had the opportunity to see Van Eyck’s “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” which left me in awe of its intricate details and profound emotions. Additionally, the museum showcases many works of modern Belgian art, showcasing the diversity and vitality of Belgian art.
This journey through Belgium allowed me to deeply experience the country’s charm. From the liveliness of Brussels to the tranquility of Bruges, and the vibrancy of Antwerp to the historical richness of Ghent, each place left an indelible mark on me. I hope my travel story can inspire you, and perhaps on your next adventure, you will choose to visit Belgium.
I have previously recommended other cities in Belgium in my previous articles. If you are interested in Belgium, I welcome you to read my other writings(Exploring Belgium: A Journey to Brussels and Bruges). Thank you for reading and joining me on this journey. Feel free to share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments section, let’s share the joy of traveling together!
