1
Aalst Belfry
One of the oldest belfries in Belgium, this UNESCO-listed medieval tower has stood proudly over the city since the 13th century and still rings out across the market square.
Aalst
Quick fact
Aalst is a historic Flemish city on the Dender river, known as an important textile centre during the Middle Ages and as the hometown of the first printer in the Low Countries.
Fun fact
The Aalst Carnival is so wildly creative and exuberant that UNESCO once listed it as Intangible Cultural Heritage — it is famous for participants dressing in outrageous costumes and showering the crowd with onions!
Landmarks
2
Grote Markt of Aalst
The heart of the city is this lively market square lined with beautiful historical buildings including the impressive Schepenhuis, one of the oldest civic buildings in Belgium.
3
Dirk Martens Museum
This museum celebrates Dirk Martens, who set up the very first printing press in the Low Countries right here in Aalst around 1473, helping to spread knowledge and books to millions.
4
Onze-Lieve-Vrouwziekenhuis Chapel
This beautifully restored historic chapel is an example of the rich religious architecture that dots the city, with lovely stained glass that glows in rainbow colours.
5
Stadspark Aalst
The city park is a green, peaceful retreat along the River Dender where families love to walk, cycle, and watch the ducks, with pretty flowerbeds throughout the year.