The Great Attraction of Brugge (Bruges)

Brugge lies in the northwest part of Belgium, capital of West Flanders and has attractive features for tourists. It has won accolade as “The Venice of the North” due to extensive canal system in the city. Its port location has given it a great historical role. A portion of the city has been declared as a World Heritage Site by the U.N. For three hundred years from 1125 A.D. it was a growing commercial city and its port had great activities with England and Scandinavia. Its contribution to European trade and prosperity was considerable. It is often said, with full justification, that very few cities give the feel of medieval Europe as this city gives.

The structures of the buildings constructed during the Middle Ages are still intact and exquisite. The well-preserved area, now with the tag of World Heritage site attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world. The Basilica of Holy Blood was consecrated after the Second Crusade when the relic of the Holy Blood was brought to the city! In the annual festivities associated with this Church, select local people dress up as Medieval crusaders and an impressive procession takes place. The Church of Our Lady on the canal side of Dijver is a graceful structure and its tall tower adds to the aesthetic beauty of the place.

The St.Salvator Cathedral is the main attraction and its ageless grace of the exterior and indefinable peace interior are to be experienced than written about. Though this is not a medieval structure, it is now the most sought after Church. Some of its present features are taken from the churches of the preceding times like beautiful wall tapestries which had been woven in Brussels!

Minnewater containing the park is a great tourist attraction. In the canalised lake, Swans abound in the peaceful park area and the grace of water is to be felt rather than read about. The settings are so lovely the place derives its name from the word “minne” which means Love. The Gruuthuse House and museum, adjacent to Our Lady’s Church is a relic of the past which deals with the story of the commercial importance of the beer-brewing from the middle ages in this city, which was much sought after in the then known world.

The Belfry tower and the Cloth Hall are two great sights in the Market of the city. In the last several years no traffic is permitted in this hallowed area. There is correspondingly an astonishing quietness and the desire of the tourist to see the place in its pristine peace is rewarded adequately. The present Court Hall is the site where long back goods unloaded by ships were unloaded for safe-keeping and further trade activities. The symmetry, grace and aesthetic delight of the Provincial Court is a must for the tourist. One of the oldest churches in the city, Jerusalem Church is privately owned and has nearly seven hundred years of existence. The Godshuizen in Bruge, though mean Houses of God, were actually built for the poor and the needy by the wealthy aristocrats.

There are a dozen big museums and other places of tourist interest. The canal Boat trips are worthy way of spending time in this city which blends the past with the present seamlessly.

There are plenty of hotels offering nice accommodation in the city of Bruges. From the luxury of star hotels like Oud Huis de Pelleart, Nicolas Cavalier there is an impressive list of hotels to choose from. Online booking facilities are available.

Transport is no problem either in Bruges. Much more than that the night life has its own aura of dignity in drinking and eating. The food offered is excellent, unique and tasty while drinks range from exclusive local products to what is available as the best in Europe in modern times.