2 replies to this topic

[thismoment]

Today I will move on to Bruges, Belgium.

Bruges dates back to the 9th century when it was founded by the Vikings. It became an international trading port. By the 12th century the river Zwin silted up and Bruges became a land hub of trade which included to the nearby Ghent.

In the 15th century Antwerp came to dominate trade, and Bruges faded in commerce but flourished in the arts with its late-gothic architecture, churches, and the development of the Flemish painting school that included such icons as Van Dyck and Hans Memling.

By the middle of the 1800's Bruges faded and soon became the poorest city in Belgium. Bruges was not a target in WWI or WWII, and therefore has emerged intact through the many centuries; its a snapshot in time! It's called "The Venice of the North" with its many canals that dissect the medieval mini-city.

A fun (and slightly dark) movie "In Bruges" may be seen on Netflix.

It's a tourist town now, but your imagination and mine can see beyond that, and we may conger up an adventure-- and perhaps, a pathetically romantic few days!

Christmas 2014 augers on!

[brzghoff]

i am enjoying your "travelog" love your ponderings and history lessons!

 

thank so much for sharing

[Clara]

Hi TM! First post I've seen! Hope you are well! Happy New Year, my friend!