The Pacification of Ghent

The Pacification of Ghent was signed at Ghent Town Hall on 8 November 1576. In a period marked by religious tensions, political unrest and the Revolt against the Spanish king Philip II, the various regions of the Netherlands concluded an agreement to stand up to the Spanish army together and pursue religious peace. This agreement is more than just a historic occasion in 1576, however. Over the centuries, it has grown into a symbol of cooperation and religious tolerance. This commemorative year will also consider how the Pacification was later commemorated, was used in political contexts and was interpreted by historians. 

Today, the Pacification of Ghent is still an important moment in the history of Ghent and of the Low Countries. In 2026, the city is commemorating its 450th anniversary with an extensive programme of events that invites visitors to explore this history in a variety of ways. 

This anniversary year is bringing history to life by means of activities located throughout the city of Ghent. These include lectures, exhibitions, book readings and special heritage occasions. At Ghent Town Hall, for example, you can view reproductions of historical records that tell the story of the Pacification, from the history that led up to it to the treaty itself. 

De Krook is also covering this period extensively, with a temporary presentation on the political and religious tensions in the Low Countries. During lectures and heritage evenings, historians will explore the impact of the Pacification and how it has been remembered and interpreted over the centuries. 

Special events are also scheduled, including an evening displaying the most precious artefacts at Ghent Archives and a book presentation on the role of Brussels in the revolt against Philip II. 

Anyone who wants to dive even deeper into this period can visit the STAM – Ghent City Museum from the end of 2027. The exhibition – Heretical Cities Revolt in the Low Countries 1566-1585 – tells the story of repression, religious tensions, disinformation and stubborn resistance in the sixteenth century. In that exhibition, Ghent therefore acts as an important backdrop for a broader story about rebellious cities in the Low Countries. 

Anyone who truly wants to experience the historical story can also explore Ghent by going on one of a number of themed walks. Several tour guide organisations are on hand to take visitors to a series of sites associated with the events of 1576. 

During these walks, one of the places you will pass is the Ghent's Town Hall, where the Pacification was signed, and you can discover how religious tensions, political ambitions and urban pride came together in sixteenth-century Ghent. Along the way, you'll hear stories about rhetoricians, religious conflicts and Ghent's role in the Revolt in the Low Countries. 

So walking along the streets of Ghent is actually an ideal way to literally follow the history of the city. 

The activities in 2026 therefore offer history enthusiasts and curious visitors a chance to learn more about an important chapter of Ghent's past.