Citadel Park, Ghent

Citadel Park in Ghent is a historic urban green space constructed gradually at the end of the 19th century. Designed primarily by landscape architect Hubert Van Hulle, the park embodies the English landscape style, which was highly fashionable at the time. This style is characterized by hilly terrain, winding pathways, picturesque views, and strategically placed structures.

The park was redeveloped in the early 20th century with the construction of buildings for the 1913 Universal Exposition. It underwent further changes in 1930 to commemorate the centenary of Belgium's independence. In 1938, a bunker was constructed beneath the park, situated next to the Leopold barracks. However, it was not completed before the German invasion.

Today, Citadel Park is a vibrant and diverse space that attracts a wide range of visitors, including residents, commuters, students, tourists, and attendees of nearby museums or the Gent ICC. Its central location between Ghent's train station and the city center makes it a popular thoroughfare. The park's distinctive landscape includes approximately 1,253 trees, featuring 100 different species, 38 of which are classified as rare. This unique collection of trees, along with its overall design, has earned the park's protected landscape status.

Despite its age, Citadel Park remains well-functioning and beloved, though the City of Ghent has initiated a revitalization process to ensure its continued vitality and appeal. Visitors can look forward to seeing the results of these efforts in the coming years, as the park undergoes further enhancements while retaining its historic charm and foundational design.

Tip:
Any local would tell you to visit the park; just as they would also tell you to stay away from it at night (roughly from sunset to sunrise).
As relaxing, beautiful, and safe as it is during the day, this park has something of a negative after-hours reputation.