Het Lam Gods is a religious polyptych by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck, completed around 1432. It is a masterpiece of the Flemish Primitives and one of the most famous artworks in the world. It consists of twelve panels, eight of which can be closed with hinges. Each wing is painted on both sides, so there are two different representations depending on whether the panels are open or closed. The altarpiece is located in the Sint-Baafskathedraal in Gent, Belgium.
The ticket price for visiting the Het Lam Gods is 8 euros for adults, 6 euros for seniors and students, and free for children under 12 years old. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket office in the cathedral. The ticket also includes access to the new visitor center, where you can learn more about the history and restoration of the altarpiece.
The Sint-Baafskathedraal is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Sundays and public holidays, when it opens at 1 p.m. The Het Lam Gods can be viewed every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Sundays and public holidays, when it opens at 1 p.m. The visitor center is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
To get to the Sint-Baafskathedraal, you can take public transport, such as tram 1 or bus 3, 17, 18, 38 or 39, and get off at Sint-Baafsplein. You can also walk from the city center, which is about 15 minutes away. If you come by car, you can park in one of the nearby parking garages, such as Vrijdagmarkt or Sint-Michiels.
What to see in the Het Lam Gods? The altarpiece depicts various scenes from the Christian faith, such as the Annunciation, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, the Last Judgment, and the portraits of Adam and Eve. The panels are richly detailed and realistic, showing the skill and innovation of the Van Eyck brothers. You can admire the vivid colors, the intricate patterns, the expressive faces, and the symbolic meanings of each element.
Some tips for visiting the Het Lam Gods are:
– Use the audio guide or join a guided tour to learn more about the altarpiece and its secrets.
– Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues and ensure your entry time.
– Respect the silence and sacredness of the cathedral and do not touch or photograph the altarpiece.
– Visit the visitor center before or after seeing the altarpiece to enhance your experience and appreciation.
Tours are available for groups of up to 20 people and last about an hour. You can choose from different languages and themes, such as art history, restoration, symbolism, or storytelling. You need to book your tour at least two weeks in advance by contacting visit.lamgods@stad.gent or calling +32 (0)9 210 10 75.
Prohibitions for visiting the Het Lam Gods are:
– Do not touch or lean on the glass case that protects the altarpiece.
– Do not use flash photography or tripods inside the cathedral.
– Do not eat or drink near the altarpiece or in the visitor center.
– Do not bring large bags or backpacks into the cathedral. You can leave them in a locker at the entrance.
