Citadel Park is one of the oldest and largest parks in Ghent. With many exotic trees, ponds andflowers to enjoy, this adaptable green space offers a refreshing break from the city. See severalnoteworthy sculptures and two of the city’s finest museums inside the park.
The spot takes its name from a Dutch citadel, which was constructed on the site in 1823. Thislarge citadel was later removed when the park was used as the grounds for the World Exhibitionin 1913.
As you stroll through the park, notice the nameplates found beside the more exotic tree speciesindicating their Latin names. The numerous sculptures scattered across the groundsinclude the dramatic Tijgers die elkaar een prooi betwisten (Tigers Contesting a Prey), a sculpture completed in 1910 by Jacques de Lalaing. Thepark regularly hosts temporary art projects. You might also find a concert taking place on thecast-iron bandstand.
Head inside the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art (S.M.A.K.), a progressive art museumfound on the park grounds. This museum houses a permanent collection of works by Belgium’sleading contemporary artists, as well as a number of prominent international artists, includingAndy Warhol and Christo. Watch for temporary exhibitions, which typically showcaseexperimental work by local artists.
For more culture, visit the Museum of Fine Arts (M.S.K.), which is across from S.M.A.K. M.S.Kis the perfect complement to S.M.A.K., housing a rich collection of tapestries, graphics,paintings and sculptures by renowned artistic masters. The permanent collection is organizedchronologically, with a focus on paintings from the Southern Netherlands. Trace the evolution ofart through the museum’s collection of works spanning from the Middle Ages to the early 20thcentury.
Citadel Park is located within walking distance of Ghent’s historic center, east of the Sint-Pieterstrain station. The park is free, but both museums charge admission. The museums close in theevening and the park has a reputation for being somewhat unsafe after dark, so it’s best to planyour visit during the daytime.
