GHENT, a city of the Austrian Netherlands, capital of the province of Flanders. It is seated on four navigable rivers, the Scheld, the Lys, the Lieve, and the Moere, which run through it, and divide it into
canals. These form 26 little isles, over which there are 300 bridges: among which there is one remarkable for a statue of brass of a young man who was obliged to cut off his father's head; but as he was going to strike, the blade flew into the air, and the hilt remained in his hand, upon which they were both pardoned. There is a picture of the whole transaction in the town-house. Ghent is surrounded with walls and other fortifications, and is tolerably strong for a place of its circumference. But all the ground within the walls is not built upon. The streets are large and well paved, the market-places spacious, and the houses built with brick. But the Friday's market-place is the largest, and is remarkable for the statue of Charles V. which stands upon a pedestal in the imperial habit. That of Cortere is remarkable for a fine walk under several rows of trees. In 1737 a fine opera-house was built here, and a guard-house for the garrison. Near the town is a very high tower, with a handsome clock and chimneys. The great bell weighs 11,000 pounds.
This town is famous for the pacifications signed here, in 1526, for settling the tranquillity of the Seventeen Provinces, which was afterwards confirmed by the king of Spain. It was taken by Lewis XIV. in 1678, who afterwards restored it. The French took possession of it again after the death of Charles II. of Spain. In 1706, it was taken by the duke of Marlborough; and by the French, in 1708; but it was retaken the same year. Last of all, the French took it by surprise after the battle of Fontenoy; but at the peace of Aix la Chapelle, it was rendered back. This is the birth-place of John of Gaunt. It is very well suited for trade, on account of its rivers and canals. It carries on a great commerce in corn; and has linen, woollen, and silk manufactures. E. Long. 4. o. N. Lat. 51. 24.