Ghent (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Saint Bavo’s Abbey in Ghent founded in the 7th century played a vital role in the city’s growth as a trading hub. Originally named Ganda it became significant for its religious and economic influence. Today only ruins remain with limited visitor access due to preservation efforts.
Saint Bavo’s Abbey located in the Macharius district of Ghent has a rich history that dates back to the 7th century. It was originally founded as a monastery at the meeting point of the Scheldt and Leie rivers an area known as Ganda which means “confluence” in Celtic highlighting its important location. Over time the monastery was renamed Saint Bavo’s Abbey after Saint Bavo a nobleman who converted to Christianity and became a monk. As Bavo’s legacy grew so did the religious significance of the abbey leading to its new name.
What role did Saint Bavo’s Abbey play in Ghent’s development?
Saint Bavo’s Abbey along with Saint Peter’s Abbey was crucial in shaping Ghent into a major trading city during the Middle Ages. These abbeys served not only as religious centers but also as hubs for economic and social activities drawing in pilgrims, scholars and traders which contributed to Ghent’s growth as a center of commerce and culture. Their influence extended beyond religious matters they managed land, engaged in agriculture and established markets further enhancing Ghent’s importance. The abbeys played a significant role in the city’s governance often acting as intermediaries between the local population and the ruling authorities.
The remains of Saint Bavo’s Abbey remind us of Ghent’s early growth and the important role that monastic communities had in shaping the city’s future. Located in the Macharius district this site allows visitors to connect with Ghent’s rich history and the lasting impact of the abbey. In the 16th century Emperor Charles had the abbey church and the nearby Sint-Baafsdorp destroyed to punish Ghent. He built a fortress called Spanjaardenkasteel there. This is when the people of Ghent got the nickname ‘stroppendragers.’ Only the dining hall and some ruins of the abbey are left now and they are being fixed up. Doreen Gaublomme who runs Historical Houses Ghent says this place is important for Ghent and Europe. The abbey helped Ghent grow and it’s where Duke Philip the Bold married Margaretha van Male also connecting it to Emperor Charles later on.
Doreen Gaublomme says that this place in Ghent is nice but also delicate because it has ruins and rare plants. In September a special team will figure out how to take care of the site but they won’t rebuild the ruins. The Sint-Baafsabdij is open to visitors on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from April to October, and groups can visit if they ask. They don’t plan to have longer hours after the restoration because the area is so sensitive.
