Great Ghent
Knowing that everything was taken care of for my new gig, it was nice that I had some time to kill in Europe. I tried to take advantage of my last few days of vacation. After all, its only been six months since I was working full time.
My friend, Helena, let me hang out with her to check out some sculptures and then a modern art museum- an acquired appreciation I believe. We saw some horses running on the beach that day. Love that about this place.
I didn't have the same exhilerated feeling that I had when I first saw the Hague, possibily because of the gloomy weather. Plus it gets dark so early here. It seemed the sun always shone and everyone seemed friendlier. I did, however, manage to find some awe & wonderment in Belgium one day when Carrie, an ex-pat from God's country (Saskatchewan) skipped work to hang out with me.
These photos are of Ghent, just a two-hour train ride away. I couldn't believe how many beautiful buildings there are in such a small area. Since it was a monday a lot of places weren't open but we did get to see the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (Lamb of God) in Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This unique masterpiece commissioned by a wealthy merchant, was completed in 1432 by Hubert and Jan van Eyck and has an eventful history: it survived the iconoclastic fury in the 16th century; Napoleon got it; and then the Nazi's almost blew it up (it was hidden in a salt mine in Austria). Now its back in the church, but in a side altar so they can charge to view.
Carrie and I also tried out the cherry beer, even though Stella Artois (my favorite beer) is actually FROM Belgium. I'll choose Stella next time since cherry beer tastes pretty much like it sounds.Yep, Ghent is a pretty great - even if all you want to do is gaze at the architecture. The chocolate is pretty amazing too - and cherries are appreciated. If you're ever in Belgium, Ilsa recommends!
posted by Ilsa @ Thursday, November 09, 2006
2 Comments:
Great photos!!!!! You are really getting into your adventure...I hope it continues to go well for you...seems like you got the visa thing straightened out okay. Do continue to blog often!!! I need the diversion LOL
take care....carl
Lots of jobs here Carl. Come on over! Thought of you when I had my first meal of potatoes - very dry.
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