'The Muinkmeersen, a zoo becomes a residential area, the Scheldt becomes a street'

In November we organised a new architecture walk in the Muinkpark area of Ghent! It was a pleasant afternoon where we got to know not only the beautiful architecture, but also the residents of this magnificent neighbourhood.

Muinkpark (where 'muink' refers to the monks of St Peter's Abbey) is the only remnant of Ghent's 19th-century zoo. In May 1905, the city of Ghent bought up the old zoo and the site was parceled out. 

The surrounding streets were each given a reference to the former zoo. Remarkable buildings with beautiful facades were realised. 

The buildings came about in two phases, before World War I and during the interwar period, so different styles intermingle.