Docked in Gent today and decided to take coach trip to Bruges …..such a quaint town! Known as the Venice of the North, it’s UNESCO site.
The Historic Centre of Brugge is an outstanding example of an architectural ensemble, illustrating significant stages in the commercial and cultural fields in medieval Europe.
Brugge in medieval times was known as a commercial metropolis in the heart of Europe.
The city reflects a considerable exchange of influences on the development of art and architecture, particularly in brick Gothic, which is characteristic of northern Europe and the Baltic. This architecture strongly determines the character of the historic centre of the city.
The 1th century city walls marked the boundaries of the medieval city. Although the walls themselves are lost today, they remain clearly visible, emphasized by the four surviving gates, the ramparts and one of the defence water towers. The medieval street pattern, with main roads leading towards the important public squares, has mostly been preserved, as well as the network of canals which, once used for mercantile traffic, played an important role in the development of the city.
In the 15th century, Brugge was the cradle of the Flemish Primitives and a centre of patronage and painting development for artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. Many of their works were exported and influenced painting styles all over Europe. Exceptionally important collections have remained in the city until today.
What did we do besides walking around and sightseeing –
EVERYONE in Bruges seemed to be eating chips from a van with dollops of sauce on top. we ate chips and sauce out of a bag as all good Brugians do!!!!So we joined them.
Will have to rewatch “In Bruges” when I get home as its set here (hence the name!) and lots of the violent scenes takes place around the Square.
Our translator, Marie Claire (aka as Marie Celeste, Marie Antoinette, Polly) entranced us with her knowledge of the area – Waterloo (had never even heard the ABBA song?); Flanders (Bruges is known as the Jewel of Flanders); wasn’t quite sure whether we were in Holland or Belgium; But she certainly minded us – making sure we knew return times, meeting points, etc. so very pleasant you couldn’t be cross with her – but lucky we had access to WIFI. Also the German guide had pretty good English and shared some info with us.
Scenery to and from Bruges was gorgeous – reminiscent of the landscapes one sees in WW1 films
