The Kortrijk Master Tour

Visit Kortrijk

Flemish masterpieces in medieval churches in the middle of a historic centre? Check. Contemporary architecture, modern art and innovative design? Check. A historic gem and modern metropolis, Kortrijk combines the best of both worlds. Follow the ‘Masterful Kortrijk’ Master Tour and discover how past and present reinforce each other and make a cocktail bubbling with creativity.

Smiley Toerist (CC Wikimedia)

St Martin’s Church

Church of Our Lady

Barozzi Veiga - Tab Architects

Abby Kortrijk

St Martin’s Church

Start your Master Tour in style and step inside one of the city’s most prominent monuments. St Martin’s Church, with its impressive Gothic architecture, was constructed between 1390 and 1466. The tower is no less than 83 metres high, but do not let the many steps to the top put you off; your reward is breathtaking views over Kortrijk.
Tickets via Visit Kortrijk.

The interior of the church is also worth seeing. The eye-catcher is the famous ‘Triptych of the Holy Spirit’ from 1587, in which painter Bernard de Rijckere depicts a magnificent Pentecostal scene with the baptism of Jesus and the creation of Adam. Another highlight is the unique Sacrament Tower by Hendrik Mauris, built in 1585.

You should also look out for the painting of St Catherine. This piece is remarkable not so much because of the work itself, but because of the artist. Karel van Mander earned his place in the history books primarily as the author of the ‘Schilder-Boeck’. This makes him one of the earliest - and most important - artist biographers of the Low Countries. His writings provided us with a wealth of information about the old Flemish Masters.

Tip: be sure to take a stroll past the beautiful Beguinage, founded in 1238 by Johanna of Constantinople. You can imagine yourself in the Middle Ages here. This oasis of calm, near Kortrijk’s Grote Markt, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.

It is a handy stop if you are feeling hungry or thirsty. In the former house of the Mother Superior - Huyze Begga - you can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.

Tip: want more tips for a quick snack? Frank is a cosy spot for breakfast or lunch. The ideal place to start the day in Kortrijk or relax with friends and family.

Tip: have you got something to celebrate? Then gourmet restaurant Table d’Amis is the place for you. Standing at the helm is Chef Matthieu Beudaert, whose talent has been recognised with a Michelin star.

Smiley Toerist (CC Wikimedia)

Saint Martin’s Church

Saskia Vanderstichele - Openbaar Kunstbezit Vlaanderen

Bas Bogaerts

Church of Our Lady

Interested in taking a peek into the soul of Kortrijk? Then head to the Church of Our Lady, built between 1199 and 1211 by Baudouin IX, Count of Flanders. That makes this medieval gem one of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks.

The church houses a veritable treasure trove of art, including the Baroque altar with the reliquary of the Holy Hair. According to the tradition, this contains a tuft of the hair of Christ. Other highlights include works by Anthony van Dyck, one of which is the magnificent ‘Raising of the Cross’, a colossal piece measuring 3.5 by 2.8 metres. The paintings by Gaspar de Crayer - with the Annunciation and the Visitation as their themes - are also worth seeing, as exponents of the Counter-Reformation in the 17th century.

Art treasures are also to be found in the Count’s Chapel, the mausoleum that Count Louis of Male had built for himself in 1370. Eye-catchers are the beautiful murals of the Counts of Flanders. Take a moment to look up at the so-called zwikken (spandrels). These gems of Gothic sculpture were originally polychromed and later gilded. They depict moralising and narrative scenes for the instruction and entertainment of the faithful.

The statue of St Catherine more than deserves its place on the Flemish Community’s list of masterpieces. The artwork is by André Beauneveu, a renowned sculptor and book illuminator from the 14th century.

Do not forget to take a moment to admire Michel Martens’ beautiful stained-glass windows. With rich colours and detailed illustrations, the artist brought to life scenes from the sad, glorious and joyful mysteries. Recently, an immersive experience centre telling the story of the Battle of the Golden Spurs was added here.

Tip: worked up a thirst after taking in all this beauty? Then grab a pint at ’t Fonteintje. This establishment opened its doors in 1661, making it one of the oldest pubs in Kortrijk. Weather permitting, find a spot on the terrace on the banks of the Lys, where there is a splendid view of the Broel towers.

Also look out here for the stained-glass windows by Omer Vanderghinste. This brewer promoted his beers via beautiful glassware bearing his name. To avoid having to replace the windows with every change of generation, he stipulated that henceforth every first-born son would be named ‘Omer’. The tradition still holds today, five generations later.

Church of Our Lady

Dominique Provost - Art in Flanders

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk Kortrijk (interieur)

Abby Kortrijk

The art lover in you is in for a treat at Abby Kortrijk. This new, quirky museum of visual art nestles in Begijnhofpark, in the historic heart of Kortrijk. Top architects reworked the historic Groeninge Abbey into a timeless gem with space for art, encounters and creativity.

This former abbey, with its monumental chapel and two underground exhibition halls, plays host to captivating temporary exhibitions, innovative collection presentations and a wide range of activities, from artistic workshops to playful sleepovers.

Tip: the Abby Café is also an architectural masterpiece where, between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m., you can enjoy delicious, honest cuisine with an artistic twist. After 6 p.m., the Café extends to include the artist-designed Living. In fine weather, the terrace provides a unique view of historic Kortrijk. The garden offers both relaxation and unique art pieces, such as the Kneeling Youth by Georges Minne.

This self-embracing, introspective youth with bowed head balances between sadness and resilience, sensuality and serenity. With a mystical, almost religious eloquence, the statue invites introspection, self-love and solace.

Tip: Those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city can enjoy some leafy surroundings in city park ’t Plein. The small card room from Expo 58 has been transformed into a delightful bar.

T plein | Kortrijk | Facebook

Barozzi Veiga - Tab Architects

Even more inspiration for a fascinating programme

Grote Markt

Stand in the middle of Grote Markt and look around. Right away, you are bound to see the proud Belfry, which was constructed in 1307. This medieval bell tower - which leans slightly - is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, look out for the bell ringers: Kalle strikes the hours, Manten the half-hours. At the top of the tower, you can enjoy stunning views of the city.

Another eye-catcher in the Grote Markt is the Historic Town Hall, built in the transitional style from late Gothic to Renaissance. In the 14 statues on the façade, you can see all the Counts of Flanders. Be sure to step inside, as the beautiful Alderman’s Hall is worth seeing, as is the Council Chamber with its carved fireplaces and stained-glass windows dating back to the 16th century.

Piet De Kersgieter

Broel Towers

The most iconic symbol of Kortrijk greets you at the Broelkaai and the Verzetskaai. There you find the Broel Towers, two medieval structures near a bridge over the River Lys. The southern tower - also known as ‘Speytorre’ or ‘Blue Tower’ - was built in 1385 to watch over the river traffic. The northern tower - or ‘Inghelburghtorre’ - was constructed 30 years later, and served as an armoury.

Tip: are you a cultural omnivore with a love of walking? Then try the 8-kilometre long Kortrijk city walking route. This takes you along the Lys and introduces you to Kortrijk’s rich history, from the Middle Ages until the present day.

Tip: in a city by the water, water fun is always close at hand. How about a boat trip (accompanied) supping, kayaking or Tank Rafting? You definitely have to try the last one, as there is nowhere else in Europe where you can float along in a barrel!

Toerisme Leiestreek vzw

Broelkaai 6

The creative heart of Kortrijk is Buda Island. This is home to innovative organisations in culture, education, healthcare and the economy, along with a number of inspiring initiatives from the residents and students. Broelkaai 6 is the gateway to the island - there is no finer window on the future than an 18th-century mansion.

Tip: creativity always goes hand in hand with good food and drink. This is proven by establishments such as Kunstkroeg Doedelzak, known for its artistic ambiance and beer menu with more than 100 options. Another nice place for a beer is ’t Mouterijtje, a pub located in the former malt room of the Tack Brewery.

At coffee and culture café DeDingen, you can enjoy artisan coffee, homemade cakes and delicious brunches. Ruimtegist, the only microbrewery in the heart of Kortrijk, also has its home on Buda Island.

Visit Kortrijk

College Bridge

Connecting Buda Island and the trendy Overleie neighbourhood, this bridge for pedestrians and cyclists is a whopping 203 metres long. Because of its remarkable shape, the people of Kortrijk sometimes refer to it as the ‘snake bridge’.

Tip: Bar Amorse is nestled at one of the abutments of the bridge. This summer bar, on the banks of the River Lys, is the place to be for those who want to take a breather in hot weather. A little further on, skaters, bladers and BMXers show off their spectacular tricks in the skatebowl. Across the street, the artwork ‘Mother Earth’ provides for counterbalance with some tranquillity.

Tip: would you like to explore Kortrijk on foot? Then take one of the many city walks. You can do this on your own or with an experienced guide for extra stories and tips.

Visit Kortrijk

Texture

The flax industry is deeply rooted in the Lys region. This industry stands as a testament to craftsmanship and innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and the determination to persist. In this authentic 1912 flax shipping house, discover the enthralling history of the flax industry in this region, combined with the stories of today and tomorrow. Because they too will amaze and inspire you.

Tip: there is even more to experience here. At Texture, you can enjoy workshops and tours, museum camps and games, exhibitions and outdoor activities.

Dishes from the Kortrijk region are on the menu at museum bistro Damast and aperitifs with tapas and sweet snacks are also served. In the summer, why not linger on the convivial terrace on the banks of the Lys.

Tip: want even more flax? Then hop on your bicycle. From Kortrijk, follow the Flax Lys Cycle Route | VISITFLANDERS, which is one of the Flanders’ Finest Cycle Routes.

Piet De Kersgeiter

Piet De Kersgieter

Pedestrian shopping area: Slow Shopping

Did you know that Kortrijk was the first city in Belgium to have a traffic-free shopping street? Since that day in 1962, the city on the Lys has remained a trendsetter. You can see this in Slow Shopping, a shopping concept where there is no place for haste and anxiety. Browsing, strolling, reading a book, relaxing on a terrace while the children play - there is plenty of time for all of this in this colourful environment full of greenery, atmospheric seating and play corners. Here, it is all about experience, authenticity and a relaxed shopping experience.

Tip: would you like to escape the city for a while and enjoy some time in nature? Nearby, there is the Land van Mortagne walking network. Perfect for a healthy dose of fresh air, some peace and even a gourmet experience. Because, halfway between Kortrijk and Land van Mortagne, you come across culinary hotspot Rebelle, an establishment run by Martijn Defauw and sommelier Esteban Casteur. Nobody pairs delicious food with outstanding wines quite like this Goesting ambassador.

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