Museums & galleries
STAM Ghent City Museum
About STAM Ghent City Museum
STAM is a city museum located in the former Bijloke Abbey complex. It documents the history and development of Ghent through a collection of artifacts and archival materials. Travelers visit this site to understand the city's evolution from its early origins to the present day, using the museum's exhibits to provide context for the architecture and layout of the surrounding urban area.
Getting There
The museum is located a short distance from the historic city center. Depending on your starting point, it is a 10 to 15-minute walk. The route takes you through the city's residential and commercial streets toward the Bijloke district.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours to navigate the exhibits and explore the surrounding abbey grounds. The time required may vary depending on how deeply you engage with the historical archives.
When to Visit
The museum is an indoor attraction, making it a viable option regardless of the season or weather conditions. Like most central attractions in Ghent, it can become crowded during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Visiting during weekday mornings typically offers a quieter experience.
Nearby Attractions
Due to its location, the museum can be combined with other cultural sites within walking distance:
- Blandijnberg (0.6km)
- Saint Peter's Square (0.6km)
- Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst (0.7km)
- Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK) (0.8km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors