St. Michael`s Bridge (Sint-Michielsbrug) is not just a crossing over the River Lys, but one of the most recognizable and photographed landmarks in Ghent. It is located in the very heart of the historic center, connecting the famous quays of Graslei and Korenlei. The main reason why tourists flock here is simple: this is the best place in the city for panoramic photos.
It is from here that the classic postcard view of the three famous towers of Ghent, which adorns guidebooks and tourist brochures, opens up. The bridge is accessible around the clock and completely free of charge.
History: From Swing Bridge to Stone Bridge
Although the modern bridge looks like an integral part of Ghent`s medieval appearance, its history spans just over a hundred years. The current stone structure was built between 1905 and 1909 according to the design of the architect Louis Cloquet. The appearance of the bridge was linked to the construction of the monumental Main Post Office building nearby, and both of these structures became part of the city`s large-scale preparations for the 1913 World`s Fair.
Before that, a flat swing bridge (draaibrug) stood on the same site — a structure that allowed ships to pass but, by the early 20th century, could no longer cope with the growing city traffic and created congestion. The earliest mention of a crossing at this place dates back to 1322, confirming the strategic importance of this location for nearly seven centuries. In 1983, St. Michael`s Bridge was added to the list of protected architectural monuments.
Architecture of St. Michael`s Bridge in Ghent
St. Michael`s Bridge is a stone arch bridge with three spans. The central, largest arch span is thrown directly over the River Lys, while the two side spans pass over the quays. This design solution makes the bridge not only functional but also visually elegant.
The main architectural and artistic decoration of the bridge is located in its central part. On one of the lampposts stands a bronze statue of the Archangel Michael, after whom the bridge is named. Saint Michael is depicted in armor, piercing with his spear a dragon lying at his feet. This scene goes back to the biblical text where the archangel casts out the dragon (a symbol of evil) from paradise. The choice of this particular saint is no coincidence: Michael has been venerated since ancient times as the heavenly patron of Ghent.
Panoramic Views from St. Michael`s Bridge in Ghent
The main value of St. Michael`s Bridge is the unparalleled 360-degree panorama that opens from it. Whichever direction you look, you will see Ghent`s iconic landmarks.
View to the East: The Three Towers of Ghent
This is the most famous angle. Looking east, you will see three legendary towers lined up in a row: St. Nicholas` Church (Sint-Niklaaskerk), the Belfry (Belfort), and St. Bavo`s Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal). This is the only place in the city where all three towers can be captured in a single frame.
View to the North: The Quays of Graslei and Korenlei
If you turn to the north side of the bridge, you will see a view of the picturesque quays of Graslei and Korenlei with their medieval guild houses, characteristic stepped facades, and wharves where grain barges were once unloaded. In the distance, the silhouette of the medieval Gravensteen Castle is visible.
View to the Southwest: St. Michael`s Church and the University Building
On the opposite bank, directly at the southern end of the bridge, stands St. Michael`s Church (Sint-Michielskerk) — a late Gothic basilica, the construction of which began in 1440 and stretched over nearly four centuries. Its characteristic unfinished tower is clearly visible from the bridge. To the right of the church, the eye is drawn to the long, monumental building that today houses Ghent University. In the past, this was a Jesuit monastery, built in the 17th century. The complex stretches along the quay and, with its strict classical facade, creates an impressive architectural contrast with the Gothic church, forming a unified ensemble that dominates the southern bank of the River Lys.
What to See Nearby
St. Michael`s Bridge is within walking distance of all of Ghent`s main attractions. Immediately behind the bridge, on the side of Korenmarkt Square, rises the Main Post Office building (Postgebouw) — another work by the architect Louis Cloquet, built in 1909 in an eclectic style and adorned with a 54-meter clock tower. Today, inside the former post office, there is a shopping center.
Tourist boats dock right by the bridge. A canal cruise (about 40 minutes) is an excellent way to see the bridge and quays from the water, as well as to get information about the city`s attractions from experienced guides.
Useful Information for Visitors
• Address: Sint-Michielshelling, 9000 Gent. The bridge is located in the pedestrian zone of the historic center.
• How to get there: The easiest way is to take a tram to the Korenmarkt stop and walk for 2–3 minutes. Trams run regularly from Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station to the center.
• Opening hours: The bridge is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Admission is free.
• Best time to visit: For quiet photos without crowds of tourists, it is recommended to come early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) or on weekdays. In the evening, after sunset, the architectural lighting is turned on, creating a particularly romantic atmosphere.
• How much time to allocate: 30–45 minutes is enough to view the bridge and take panoramic photos.
• Parking: Driving into the historic center by car is not recommended. It is better to leave your car at one of the P+R park-and-ride lots and take public transport.
St. Michael`s Bridge is not just an engineering structure, but the main viewing platform of Ghent and one of its calling cards. It offers that very panorama of the three towers for which travelers from all over the world come to Flanders. Even if you have only one day in Ghent, be sure to find time to climb this bridge: pause on its arch, breathe in the air above the River Lys, and take that very photograph that will stay with you forever. This is the place where the medieval history of the city appears before you in all its fullness and grandeur.
