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Best known as inventor of the saxophone, Sax (1814–94) devised a range of innovative musical instruments.

Pioneer polar explorer (1866–1934) who led the first expedition to overwinter in Antarctica in 1897–99.

Known as “the father of modern anatomy”, Vesalius (1514–64) was physician to Charles V and Philip II of Spain.

A leading choreographer (born 1960) in the world of contemporary dance.

A colleague and friend of Rubens, Antoon van Dyck (1599– 1641) matched many of Rubens’ skills, and addressed a similar range of subject matter. Van Dyck, however, is best known for his portraits. He became court painter to Charles I of England, who rewarded him with a knighthood.

Frank Brangwyn (1867–1956) was a gifted painter, born in Bruges, the son of William Curtis Brangwyn, one of a group of British artists and architects involved in restoring the city to its Gothic glory. Frank Brangwyn donated an impressive collection of his work to the city. It is now exhibited on the upper floor of the late-18th-century Arentshuis. The ground floor is used for temporary exhibitions.

Baldwin (d. 878) became the first Count of Flanders, making Bruges his stronghold.

This beautiful enclave, home to a community of béguines (see Bruges) from 1245 until 1928, expresses something essential about the soul of Bruges. Around the tree-shaded park are the 17th-and 18th-century whitewashed homes of the béguines . You can visit the grounds, the béguinage church and one of the houses (Begijnhuisje ).

Ghent’s belfry is a prominent landmark, rising 91 m (299 ft) to the gilded dragon on the tip of its spire. It was built in 1380–81 and served for centuries as lookout tower, clock and alarm. It houses a 52-bell carillon, which is used for regular concerts. There is a lift to the top.