Ghent - Vrijdagmarkt

Since 1863 the massive statue of Jacob van Artevelde marks the center of the Vrijdagmarkt. Jacob van Artevelde was a political leader in Flanders during the times of the Hundred Years’ War. Through his efforts it was psosible to undo the boycott of English wool imports and so revive the textiles industry in Ghent. But times were uneasy and violent. In 1345 he was murdered during a riot by an angry mob.

Seen in the backdrop is the Sint-Jacobskerk, a place where pilgrims met since the 11th century. The church seen was erected from 1120 on, but largely altered over the centuries. The large crossing tower dates to the 13th century.