Bruges is a town in Flanders, the northern part of Belgium. The Venice of the North, as it is known, is a well-preserved city where the entire historic center has been recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Bruges received its city charter on July 27, 1128, and new walls and canals were built. Since about 1050, gradual silting had caused the city to lose its direct access to the sea. A storm in 1134, however, re-established this access, through the creation of a natural channel at the Zwin.
The attractions of this magical place include a wide range of museums, churches, historical buildings and canals and streets that can be explored by boat, foot or horse. Paved with cobblestone streets, this small city is perfect for romantic strolls. And while the hidden nooks and crannies will reveal bustling markets, local craftsmen and dreamy gardens, you can also explore from the sky via hot air balloon ride.
The Market Square (Grote Markt) is the heart of medieval Bruges. In the center is a statue celebrating the heroes, Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninc, of the Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302 when a French Belgium was forced to recognize the Flemish emancipation. The Southern side of the square displays the medieval style houses. To the west is the Provincial Court, built in the neo-gothic style.
The Market Square has been free of traffic since 1996. Many of its medieval buildings are notable, including the Church of Our Lady, whose brick spire reaches 122.3 m, making it one of the world's highest brick towers. The Belfry tower (Belfort) was built in 1220, with additions in 1240 and reconstruction after it burned in 1280, 1491, and 1781.
The sculpture Madonna and Child, which can be seen in the transept, is believed to be Michelangelo's only sculpture to have left Italy within his lifetime. Other famous buildings in Bruges include: the Beguinage, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the modern Concertgebouw and the Old St John’s Hospital. Cycling in Bruges is the perfect way to discover the historical centre. Bruges can be described as a city where cycling is familiarized and where the local government puts a lot of effort to improve cycling in this city.
June 20, 2013
I. C.
