Ken.G

For a city where it is an honor to walk in a halter around its neck, Ghent (Ghent) has a strong commitment to tradition. It is famous for the great exhibition of flowers and plants organized every five years and for being the first city on the European continent to reach the industrial revolution. The word "stroppendragers" literally means those who wear a noose. Nowadays, to be called that, you have to belong to a prestigious guild. And where does this term come from? In the turbulent 16th century, Ghent went on strike against the high taxes imposed by Emperor Charles V. The angry ruler punished the inhabitants with forced participation in the humiliating march. The most renowned townspeople and members of several guilds marched through the streets with noose at their necks, in shirts and barefoot. The emperor did not think that the punishment would be a great honor, and the procession - an annual tradition, celebrated during the festive festival, Gentse Feesten .