Bruges, Belgium
In the Flemish region on the northwest side of Belgium, lays the quaint city of Bruges. A visit to Bruges is a trip to the past; to a medieval city that’s frozen in time. This place has the feel of a mountain town; where everything is compact and shops are for pleasure. From laced goods to chocolate, or museums to churches, there is something for everyone in Bruges.
Bruges is an ideal place for tourism or a simple get away. Although there are over 115,000 people living outside the city, only about 20,000 live within, giving Bruges the feel of charming, little town.
When you first step outside the train station, there’s not much to see. However, after a scenic walk past Minnewater Park, you arrive in the heart of the city.
Bruges is known for its river canals that run through the city. According to a local, it’s sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Because of its accessible water transportation and its large port, Bruges was the chief commercial city of the world in the 14th century.
On any given day in Bruges, it’s most likely raining, which fits the medieval, mystifying feel of the city. Taking a ride down the canal in a riverboat followed by a homemade cup of hot chocolate makes for a cozy afternoon in the city. In fact, chocolate shops are an enormous industry in Bruges. Competing chocolate shops line almost every street, filling the air with a bittersweet aroma. Lace is also a known icon there. People travel from all over to acquire the authentic fabric.
Museums are a prominent attraction in Bruges, too. A few of the most popular places for visitors to see are the Bruggemuseum, which gives detailed accounts of the city’s history, and the Groeninge museum, which houses various Renaissance paintings and works from over six centuries. The Bruges Hospitaalmuseum holds impressive records and medical instruments from eight centuries. Another noteworthy museum that many women come to enjoy is the enchanting Diamantmuseum, which houses the history of diamond polishing in Belgium. Diamond polishing was invented in Bruges more than 500 years ago and to this day, Belgium is the world’s leading diamond country. Students can visit the museum for just five euro with a student ID.
Other notable attractions in Bruges are the market square and Our Lady’s Church. The inviting market square was the center of the city during Bruges’ medieval era. In the square stands the Belfry tower, one of the most noteworthy symbols of the city. The square demonstrates the history of the city due to its preserved architecture.
The remarkable Church of Our Lady dates back to the 13th century and houses many of the city’s famous artwork, which includes Michelangelo’s “Madonna and Child.” It’s tower stands at just over 122 meters and remains the tallest structure in the city to this day.
The people of Bruges are very friendly and welcome tourists. There are several delicious cafes to choose from, and many street vendors welcome you to try their authentic, Belgian waffles and chocolate. When you plan your trip to Western Europe, be sure to remember Bruges, a city frozen in time that offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for artwork, museums, canal tours, chocolate or lace, you will surely find contentment in this enchanting city in Belgium.
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