Just over an hour away from Lille is Ghent, Belgium's third largest city and the capital of the East Flanders region. As you explore Ghent, you'll see much of the beautiful medieval architecture that has endured since it was a renowned city state during the Middle Ages. One of the easiest ways to take it all in is by taking a boat tour through the rivers and canals.
However, Ghent's history also has a dark side as the repressive Counts that ruled the area abused their power. This grisly history is remembered at one of the city's main squares and at castle from which the Counts ruled.