Bruges, one of the most important tourist centers of West Flanders, one of the provinces of Belgium, is a well-known destination for European vacationers. Despite its small population of around 117,000 people, this charming town attracts over 2 million tourists annually. Visitors flock to Bruges not only for its famous Belgian chocolate and waffles but also to immerse themselves in the medieval ambiance that the city has preserved for centuries. Bruges features cobblestone streets, majestic ancient temples, intricately carved facades adorning colorful houses, and a network of three canals that has earned it the nickname "Venice of the North." The only reminder of the modern world is the sheer number of tourists that fill its streets.
The origins of Bruges are challenging to pinpoint precisely, but records date back to the 3rd century when St. Chrysolus preached here. Over the following centuries, it grew into the principal city of Flanders. By 1277, Bruges' harbor became a vital link to the Mediterranean, with the arrival of the first fleet from Genoa, Italy, initiating active trade in the city. Following the Norman conquest of England, the Hanseatic League of London was established in Bruges, a trading union endowed with extensive rights and considerable political influence. In 1302, it was the merchants of Bruges who led a rebellion against the French viceroy Joachos de Chatillon.
Bruges had all the prerequisites to maintain its position as Flanders' foremost trading city for centuries to come. It was home to the first stock exchange, hosted the bishop's seat, and served as a court of first instance. However, internal conflicts among the city's authorities, religious conflicts leading to displacement, and the constant ravages of conquest and bombings during both World Wars I and II halted and eroded the city's former economic eminence.
Today, Bruges is home to various industries, including shipbuilding, ship repair, brewing, winemaking, lace production, and the manufacturing of fabric from materials like linen, cotton, and wool. Additionally, one of Europe's oldest diamond cutting centers operates in the city. However, the primary source of income for Bruges is tourism.
The name "Brugge" is thought to have originated from the Norman word for "harbor," although some believe it comes from the German word "Brücke," meaning "bridge." Historically, merchant ships used to navigate the canals of Ghent, Sluys, and Ostend, but the coastline has shifted about 16 kilometers away from the city over time, making the canals accessible only to pleasure boats and canal vessels. Bruges boasts 54 bridges spanning its canals, including drawbridges and wooden bridges.
While Dutch is the primary language spoken in Bruges and throughout Belgium, French is the second official language. However, using French is not always advisable in this region due to historical tensions. In restaurants, you can often find menus in both languages, but English is widely understood, making communication hassle-free.
The currency used in Bruges, as in the rest of the European Union, is the euro (EUR).
