Overview:

The Graslei and Korenlei are two of the most picturesque quayside areas of Ghent, a UNESCO World Heritage City. The Graslei (which literally means "grass quay"), was the site of Ghent’s main trading port during the Middle Ages and is lined by several guildhalls and patrician houses. The beautiful Korenlei (which means the wharf of grain) was the city’s main grain store and ranks amongst the prettiest quayside areas in Belgium. Nowadays, the Graslei and Korenlei form the entrance of the old town center where visitors can take in the stunning views and admire the historical buildings. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Belgium
Prominent Features:

1. Colorful Houses: The Graslei and Korenlei feature a row of brightly painted and brightly colored medieval houses. 2. Town Hall: Dating back to 1421, the Ghent Town Hall is located near the Graslei and Korenlei. 3. Bridge of the Golden Spurs: Connecting the two banks of the Leie River, the Bridge of the Golden Spurs spans the Graslei and Korenlei. 4. History: Parts of the Graslei and Korenlei date back to the year 1200. 5. Boat Rides: Boat rides along the Leie River offer breathtaking views of the Graslei and Korenlei. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belgium.

History:

The Graslei and Korenlei are two historic quays of the river Lys in the historic city center of Ghent, Belgium. The quays are lined with cannons, warehouses, row houses, guild houses, and historic bridges. The Graslei is a quay along the Lys with the oldest and most impressive houses in Ghent. It is estimated that the oldest houses date back to the 13th century and many of these still stand today. The Korenlei is the quay adjacent to the Graslei and hosts some of Ghent’s oldest stone buildings, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries and also contains many of the historic cannons which line the quays. During the Middle Ages, Ghent was an important trading center and a major port. Ships from all over Europe came to Ghent with goods to sell, adding to the wealth of the city. Many of the guilds who carried out these trades also collected tolls at the Graslei. In the 15th century, several of the guilds constructed their own palaces and grand guild houses along the Graslei and Korenlei. The quays also witnessed many historical events including the famous Battle of the Spurs in 1302. This was a short battle between the French and Flemish armies during the Franco-Flemish War. The Flemish army soundly defeated the French, surrendering them on the shores of the Graslei surrounded by cannons. Today, the Graslei and Korenlei are popular attractions in Ghent. The quays are lined with cafes and restaurants and visitors come to relax and take in the historic architecture. They are also the start of the annual Ghent Festival, which celebrates all things Ghent from the food to its cultural heritage. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belgium with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Built in the Middle Ages, the Graslei and Korenlei are two docks along the River Leie in the city of Ghent. 2. The Graslei and Korenlei are considered some of the most picturesque areas in Ghent. 3. 13th Century warehouses line the sides of Graslei and date back to a time when the port was the wealthiest in Belgium. 4. The docks are a popular spot for photographers, couples in love, and tourists. 5. During the Summer months, the Royal Fireworks take place in the Graslei. 6. A crucifix from the 1320s and one of Ghent’s few remaining lampposts from the early-1700s are located on the docks. 7. Graslei and Korenlei are listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. 8. The docks were mentioned in Victor Hugo's Les Misrables. One of the historical monuments of Belgium, it tells the story of a bygone era