110 BELGIUM AND LUXEMBOURG REGION BY REGION
One of the most popular destinations in
Belgium, Bruges is an unspoilt medieval
town. The centre of the city is amazingly
well preserved, with winding streets
that pass by picturesque canals lined
with fine buildings. When the River
Zwin silted up at the end of the 15th
century, the town’s trade was badly
affected. It was never heavily indus-
trialized and has retained most of its
medieval buildings. As a further bonus, Bruges also
escaped major damage in both World Wars. Today, the
streets are well maintained – there are no billboards or
high-rises, and traffic is strictly regulated. All the major
attractions are located within the circle of boulevards
that marks the line of the old medieval walls.
Hans Memling
Museum
Six of the artist’s
works are shown
in the small chapel
of the 12th-century
St Janshospitaal, a
city hospital that
was functioning
as late as 1976.Onthaalkerk Onze-
Lieve-Vrouw
The massive Welcome Church of
Our Lady took 200 years to build
and shows many architectural styles.View of the Rozenhoedkaai
A charming introduction
to Bruges is provided by
the boat trips along the
city’s canal network.
Street-by-Street: The City Centre
A traditional
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KHOFFor hotels and restaurants in this region see pp264–6 and pp288–91