Shawn Bags the Belfry Tower – Ghent Belgium

Published by Shawn on

Welcome to the Belfry Tower in Ghent, Belgium. If you give them money, they will let you go to the top of the 91m tall tower. Which is about 300 feet high, or 386 steps if you are taking the stairs like we did.
It would seem that perhaps we came a bit too late to visit. “Hello? Anybody home?”. We’ll come back tomorrow.
Our visit the next day starts at the bottom of the Belfry in the Cloth Hall, which tells the tale of how important the textile industry was in Ghent in ancient times. This hall was added in 1425. Construction of the Belfry Tower stated in 1313 and didn’t finish until 1380.
It shouldn’t surprise you then that the views from the top are fantastic. The belfry tower served many purposes over it’s life. From security for the town to a storage place for important documents.
Patrols stationed in the tower would watch over the town of Ghent for intruders. Fortunately, they welcome Canadians.
In the event intruders were spotted, this giant bell could be rung to notify the town. This bell weighs 6200 Kg. Is over 2m tall and over 2m in diameter.
In addition to the giant bell, the Belfry is home to 54 other bells. This Carillon drum is the music box that coordinates all the other bells. Originally from 1377, it is one of the oldest and largest in the world. The 17600 holes in the drum can be configured to pull on a string which strikes a bell with a hammer, like a music box. The tune it plays is changed once every 2 years.
Since we were not currently under attack, it made sense to enjoy the view from the top.
It got a bit tricky when people tried to pass on the narrow walkways.
Great views of St Nicholas’ Church .
You didn’t think I would forget? There has to be a traditional summit selfie from the top.
Categories: Belgium TravelTravel
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1 Comment

Christine · January 25, 2026 at 8:34 pm

You could honestly pass as a monk.

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