About this place
Sint-Michielsbrug is a stone arch bridge spanning the River Leie right in the heart of Ghent's historic centre. Its name comes from the nearby Sint-Michielskerk church and the adjoining Sint-Michielshelling street.
When was the bridge built?
The current structure was built between 1905 and 1909 to a design by architect Louis Cloquet. It replaced an earlier flat swing bridge that had previously connected the two riverbanks at this spot. The new bridge was designed to blend in with the surrounding historic buildings and to reinforce the character of the old town. In 1983 it was granted protected monument status, confirming its architectural and historical value to the city.
What makes the bridge architecturally distinctive?
Sint-Michielsbrug takes the form of a stone arch bridge whose silhouette fits harmoniously into the line of the Graslei and Korenlei quays. A defining feature is the central lantern, topped with a bronze statue of the archangel Saint Michael. He is shown in full armour, with wings, in the act of running a dragon through with his sword at his feet — a scene drawn from the classic iconography of the saint as vanquisher of evil. This sculptural detail gives the bridge a recognisable, symbolic character, making it more than just a functional river crossing.
Why is the bridge so popular with visitors?
Sint-Michielsbrug is considered one of the best viewpoints in all of Ghent. Standing on the bridge and looking north, visitors can admire the famous Graslei and Korenlei quays with their row of historic stepped-gable houses, with the silhouette of Gravensteen castle visible in the distance. Looking east, the bridge offers what is often described as one of the city's most iconic views — the simultaneous sight of three Ghent towers: the Sint-Niklaaskerk church, the city belfry (Belfort), and Sint-Baafskathedraal cathedral. This alignment of three towers in a single frame makes the bridge a favourite spot for both photo-taking tourists and locals out for a riverside stroll.
How do you get to the bridge?
Sint-Michielsbrug sits right in the centre of Ghent, immediately next to the Graslei and Korenlei quays and the Sint-Michielskerk church. It is easily reachable on foot from most of the old town's main attractions, and its position over the Leie makes it a natural landmark along any riverside walk through the city.
Frequently asked questions
Who designed Sint-Michielsbrug? The bridge was designed by architect Louis Cloquet and completed between 1905 and 1909.
What does the statue on the bridge depict? The bronze statue on the bridge's central lantern shows the archangel Saint Michael in armour, with wings, running a dragon through with his sword.
Why is the bridge called Sint-Michielsbrug? Its name comes from the nearby Sint-Michielskerk church and the adjoining Sint-Michielshelling street.
What view does the bridge offer? On one side it looks out over the Graslei and Korenlei quays and Gravensteen castle; on the other, it offers a simultaneous view of three Ghent towers — Sint-Niklaaskerk, the Belfort, and Sint-Baafskathedraal.
Is the bridge a protected monument? Yes, Sint-Michielsbrug was listed as a protected monument in 1983.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.