Bruges, Belgium's Historic Gem

If you haven't seen the film, In Bruges, with Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleason and Ralph Fiennes, be sure to rent or download it.  It was filmed in Bruges. I saw it a few years ago and after seeing the film definitely wanted to visit Bruges.  I wasn't disappointed.  This pocket book size medieval city was Europe's trade center and wealthiest until the 1500's.  Unfortunately it fell into obscurity for almost 400 years. Then, in the late 19th century the lace cottage industry brought the city back from poverty.

I arrived Christmas Day morning, the weather was clear and the sun shinning.  I couldn't stop taking photos except for a breakfast break of Belgium waffles with cream.  Yum!  Once I was fed I started my tour in the Markt or Central Marketplace.  The step-gabled guild houses are the main feature of the square.

Markt

The Provinciaal Hof, is a late 19th century design and is the main government building on the east side of the square.

Provinciaal Hof 

The Belfort plays an essential role in the film and is quite impressive.  Climb to the top of the belfry and you can see for miles.  Bring your walking shoes, there are 366 steps to the top.

Belfort

The Burg in Bruges is the focal point of the older part of the city.  It is filled with classic architectural buildings like the Stadhaus below when Bruges was the hub of international trade.

Stadhaus

The Stadhaus is one of the greatest medieval secular pieces of architecture in Europe.  It is the town hall and was originally constructed in 1372-1420 but was renovated in the 19th century.

Bruges has a beautiful canal that runs through the city. One after one, each building is more interesting than the next.

One of four surviving gates to the city

There are some wonderful museums in Bruges showing the finest in medieval art dating from the 1300's.  Unfortunately I was there on Christmas Day, so the museums were not open.  The two museums with the most incredible art selections are The Groeningemuseum, a short walk from the center of town and The Memling in Sint-Jan-Hospitaalmuseum.  The latter museum is  part of a medieval hospital.

Here is a selection of other photos I thought best represents Burges.  If you happen to visit Belgium, don't miss Bruges.  It is a piece of history that cannot be ignored.