Bruges is one of the most important tourist centers of West Flanders, one of the provinces of Belgium. For centuries, the city has retained its unchanged appearance – cobbled narrow streets, monumental ancient temples, and intricately carved facades of colorful houses, all surrounded by the gentle flow of three canals that have earned the city the nickname "Venice of the North." The historical center of Bruges takes the shape of an oval, extending from north to south, a reflection of the city's unique historical development.
Despite its relatively small size, exploring all the sights of Bruges in a single day is an impossible task. The city boasts an abundance of religious buildings, ranging from quaint chapels to the renowned Beguinage, a complex of houses, churches, and the abbess's residence. This area is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe and is protected by UNESCO. A particular place of pilgrimage for tourists is the Belfort Tower, which gained fame through the movie "In Bruges."
However, Bruges is not just about historical architecture. The city is also famous for its lace, chocolate, and Belgian beer, with dedicated museums celebrating these local treasures. Authorities have taken measures to ensure that tourists can fully savor the city's atmosphere, including restrictions on car traffic, making it a more pedestrian-friendly destination.
