Adoration of the Lamb
Step right up to the center of the most famous altarpiece in history! In this lush, green meadow, a tiny lamb stands on a red altar, bleeding into a chalice—yes, it's a bit gruesome for a peaceful garden, but it represents the sacrifice of Christ. Surrounding this 'Mystic Lamb' are angels swinging incense and massive crowds of saints, martyrs, and prophets pouring in from the horizon, all dressed in incredibly detailed, jewel-toned robes. Jan van Eyck painted this masterpiece in 1432, pioneering the use of oil paint to achieve these mind-blowing details. It's been stolen by Napoleon, hidden from Nazis in a salt mine, and cut into pieces, yet it remains the crown jewel of Saint Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent.
Location: Saint Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent