From an architectural point of view, the fourteenth-century refectory is the perfect Gothic space. Seven pointed arches support a wooden barrel vault that spans an area of 10 metres by 31. The rafters are 13.70 metres high. The arches rest on slender half-pillars made of ornately carved Tournai stone.

pre-van eyckian wall paintings

As was customary in the Middle Ages, the stone walls are coated with layers of lime, plaster and paint. The appearance of the space is refined by architectural elements such as the vaulting and the delicate pillars. But it is the wall paintings with their decorative interplay of lines and muted colour palette that steal the show. They represent the Last Supper, the Blessing of Mary, St Christopher and St John the Baptist.

authentic, fourteenth-century, gothic brick gem

The west wall of the refectory is particularly admired for the masterly way it combines a variety of Gothic decorative elements. Masons of the day showed great flair when it came to expressing the Gothic artistic idiom in brick and this Gothic gem is a tribute to their superb craftsmanship.

a gothic gem written by Jeannine in: nieuws

guided city walks

Why not combine a visit to STAM with a guided walk or bicycle trip! There is a wide range of tours to choose from. Book through Vizit, Gandante or Gidsenbond. The many tours available include: Old Ghent (De kuip van Gent), the lure of the Patershol district, Charles V in Ghent, In the Gravensteen (the Castle of the Counts of Flanders) and Browsing round Ghent.

ghent from the water

Who can resist an atmospheric boat trip! Groups can travel from STAM to the centre by boat (Bijlokekaai landing stage). Ghent has several shipping companies offering a whole range of round trips. To make a reservation, go to Rederij De Gentenaer, De Bootjes van Gent, Gent-Watertoerist of Boat in Ghent.

eating, drinking and shopping

STAM likes to make its visitors feel like regulars! Groups can enjoy a cup of coffee or lunch at STAM's café-restaurant. If you'd prefer a change of scene, the information desk at STAM will provide you with a list of group-friendly restaurants and convivial cafés. And if you're planning a spot of shopping, the information desk will be able to give you a few pointers including information about markets. The flower market on Sundays is a delight!

ghent and beyond by bicycle

Ghent is cycling mad, so why not join them! A cycling map is available which sets out several routes in the heart of the city. If you'd like to explore the surrounding area, why not cycle alongside the River Leie to the verdant Sint-Martens-Latem, a former artists' colony. Groups can arrange for bicycles to await them at STAM by logging on to Max Mobiel, Trans-Fair of Het Verzet.

a day out in ghent written by Sarah in: nieuws