Monument of the Van Eyck Brothers

Hubert and Jan Van Eyck were artists of the 15th century. This monument is meant to remember them and praise them, mostly for their creation of the altarpiece in St. Bavo’s Cathedral.

The Van Eyck family has created lots of renowned creators in history. But none of them are as renowned in Ghent as the Van Eyck brothers. The monument itself is a sight to see for the imposing sight it creates. This is no regular statue! Architect Valentin Vaerwyck and the sculptor Geo Verbanck really went the extra mile. They finished up the monument in 1913, just in time for it to be displayed at the World Exhibition in Ghent.

Monumental History

We’re not joking when we say Ghent is a historic city and this monument is one sight that really shows it. The Van Eyck brothers are famous for making the altarpiece of the cathedral next door. The Van Eyck brothers helped to shape what’s called the Early Netherlandish art style, which you’ll see in pretty much every painting in Belgian churches.

As far as historians can tell, Hubert made the panels and Jan did the painting. It was a partner project that actually worked out pretty well! The altarpiece was commissioned by the then mayor of Ghent Jodocus Vijd and Lysbette Vijd, his wife, for St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Amazingly enough, the cathedral is right next door. You can’t miss it.