The (in)visible traces of Ghent's circus history

Ghent has a special connection to the circus. The city used to be the place to be for circus enthusiasts. The Halfvastenfoor, the Ghent equestrian society Le Cercle Equestre, the Hippodrome ‘De Drie Sleutels,’ and the Nieuw Circus were among the foundations of a thriving circus scene in Flanders. It wasn’t just the prestigious buildings that put Ghent on the map; many Ghent-based circus artists also played a significant role. Many famous circus directors and internationally acclaimed artists hailed from Ghent.

If you walk through Ghent today, you can still see a few physical traces that bear witness to the city’s vibrant circus past. Others have since disappeared, but behind the new facades, in street names, or in squares, many stories still lie hidden. Discover on this city walk why Ghent is called the circus city of Flanders.


This walk is an initiative of the Huis van Alijn, museum of everyday life.
The Huis van Alijn preserves a large circus collection and researches this theme.
Want to know more? Discover more about the city’s circus history at www.huisvanalijn.be


Would you like a physical walking map? Pick one up for free at the museum reception desk (Kraanlei 65, 9000 Ghent) or at the Visit Gent office (Sint-Veerleplein 5, 9000 Ghent).

📏 3.12 km
🕑 1 hour
⭐ Easy
📍 Woodrow Wilsonplein, 9000 Ghent
🏁 Woodrow Wilsonplein, 9000 Ghent