Historic Centre of Brugge
Brügge, Belgium
23.10.2010
The Altstadt von Brügge, or Old Town of Bruges, is a picturesque and historic district located in the charming city of Bruges, Belgium. Known as the "Venice of the North," Bruges is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the charm and beauty of a medieval European city.
The Altstadt von Brügge is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most well-preserved and enchanting medieval architecture in the world. The cobbled streets, winding canals, and quaint buildings create a romantic and fairy-tale-like atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
One of the main attractions in the Altstadt von Brügge is the Markt, a bustling square surrounded by colorful buildings and charming cafes. Here, visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or traditional Belgian treat while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Another must-see in the Altstadt von Brügge is the Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower that offers stunning views of the city from the top. This iconic landmark is over 800 years old and is a symbol of Bruges' rich history.
For those interested in art and history, the Groeningemuseum is a must-visit. This museum houses a vast collection of Flemish and Belgian art, including works by famous artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
In addition to its architectural and cultural wonders, the Altstadt von Brügge also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and chocolate stores. Belgium is famous for its chocolate, and visitors can indulge in some of the best at the numerous chocolatiers in the Old Town.
Overall, the Altstadt von Brügge is a must-see for anyone visiting Belgium. Its charm, history, and beauty make it a truly unique and unforgettable destination. Whether you are strolling along the canals, admiring the medieval architecture, or indulging in some delicious Belgian chocolate, the Altstadt von Brügge is sure to capture your heart and leave you with lasting memories.
Brugge is an outstanding example of a medieval historic settlement, which has maintained its historic fabric as this has evolved over the centuries, and where original Gothic constructions form part of the town's identity. As one of the commercial and cultural capitals of Europe, Brugge developed cultural links to different parts of the world. It is closely associated with the school of Flemish Primitive painting.
Bruges ( BROOZH, French: [bʁyʒ] ; Dutch: Brugge [ˈbrʏɣə] ; German: Brügge German pronunciation: [ˈbʁʏɡə] ) is the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in the Flemish Region of Belgium, in the northwest of the country. It is the sixth most populous city in the country.
The area of the whole city amounts to more than 14,099 hectares (140.99 km2; 54.44 sq miles), including 1,075 hectares off the coast, at Zeebrugge (from Brugge aan zee, meaning 'Bruges by the Sea'). The historic city centre is a prominent World Heritage Site of UNESCO. It is oval and about 430 hectares in size. The city's total population is 117,073 (1 January 2008), of whom around 20,000 live in the city centre. The metropolitan area, including the outer commuter zone, covers an area of 616 km2 (238 sq mi) and had a total of 255,844 inhabitants as of 1 January 2008.Along with a few other canal-based northern cities, such as Amsterdam and Saint Petersburg, it is sometimes referred to as the Venice of the North. Bruges has significant economic importance, thanks to its port, and was once one of the world's chief commercial cities. Bruges is a major tourism destination within Belgium and is well known as the seat of the College of Europe, a university institute for European studies.
