The Mystic Lamb, or ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ by the Van Eyck brothers, completed in 1432, is recognised worldwide as a great work of art, and one of the most influential paintings ever made. It is an absolute must-see on your weekend break to Ghent. A total of 18 panels form a magical evocation of scenes from the Bible, as well as a portrait of the church warden, Joos Vijd, who commissioned the altarpiece, and his wife Elisabeth Borluut. The monumental Mystic Lamb was painted on oak panels covered in thin layers of a mixture of chalk and animal glue. The figures were applied in several layers of oil paint. The combination of the painstaking work and transparent paint creates an extra dimension. Discover it for yourself as you stand in front of this masterpiece. You will see that an inner glow seems to radiate from the painting: the light of the divine. Hubert van Eyck painted part of the Ghent Altarpiece that includes the Mystic Lamb, but was never able to finish it. His younger brother Jan, an absolute master of the art of painting, is said to have finished this masterpiece a few years after Hubert’s death.

Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa is an old Koranic school, built in the 14th century. It housed up to 900 students at its peak, and it was one of the largest theological schools in North Africa. It closed down in the 1960s but opened again in 1982 as a public sight. Even though the building looks modest on the outside, the inside will amaze you with its intricate beauty.

The Branson Scenic Railway offers a 40-mile round trip through the Ozark Mountains, showcasing breathtaking views of rugged landscapes, historic tunnels, and bridges. Departing from Branson’s restored 1905 depot, the journey lasts about two hours, with narration providing insights into the region’s history and the railway’s legacy. Passengers can choose seating in restored vintage cars from the 1940s and 1950s, including dome cars for panoramic views. The experience includes a concession car, and from April through November, a luxurious four-course dinner train enhances select Saturday evenings. Reservations are highly recommended for special events like the dinner train.