Genk vs. Ghent: Two Distinct Belgian Cities

Genk and Ghent (Gent in Dutch) are completely different cities in Belgium's Flanders region:

• Genk: In Limburg province (eastern Flanders). Former coal mining hub; now tech/logistics (Thor Park), Maasmechelen Village outlet, Bokrijk open-air museum. Population ~66,000.
• Ghent (Gent): In East Flanders province (northwestern Flanders). Medieval powerhouse; stunning preserved center (Graslei, Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo's Cathedral with Ghent Altarpiece), university city, port. Population ~265,000.

They are ~100 km (60 mi) apart. Confusion arises from similar-sounding names, but their histories, geographies, and characters are distinct.