The Van Eyck brothers did not invent the content of The Ghent Altarpiece themselves. We know that the symbolism of the artwork was crystal-clear to everyone in their time and could be found in many more places in Ghent. On this walk, you will discover for yourself where the famous painters got their symbolic inspiration from.
Add to “My Trip”

The Ghent Altarpiece can be seen as a basic summary of the Christian view of the world at the time of the Van Eyck brothers. At that time, everyone knew perfectly well what the meaning was – we need a little more explanation, however. These symbols were not unfamiliar either: the city is littered with similar paintings, drawings, sculptures and so on.  

This walk takes in all that symbolism in the city, so you'll find out exactly what's on The Ghent Altarpiece: as many as 35 details from the altarpiece have a link in Ghent's inner city. This is an opportunity not only to understand the content of The Ghent Altarpiece, but also to get to know the city in a different way. Of course, a visit to The Ghent Altarpiece itself is the perfect ending to your walk.  

  • This walk is only available online, not in hard copy. 
  • Find more about the Van Eyck brothers at vaneyckwashere.be.  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
Outdoor
Free of charge
The Ghent Altarpiece
Van Eyck

Public transport