Brugge, a quintessential Medieval town

Brugge, Belgium –  is unique in the way it has maintained is authentic Medieval atmosphere.  It is dominated by 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th century buildings.

Government Palace (Gothic Revival) and the statue commemorating heroes of the Battle of the Golden Spurs.

In the 9th century it was a landing stage for the Vikings.  Local artisans fought the ruling French nobility successfully in the Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302, an event that has gone down in history as the Matins of Bruges.  The leader of the artisans was Peter de Coninck.  There is a monument to him and John Breydel in Market Square.

Belfry Tower, 13th century – symbolizing the love of freedom of the burghers of medieval Brugge.

The 14th century was the Golden Age and the 15th continued as an era of splendor, fine arts and refinement.  By the middle of the 19th century, however, Brugge was poverty stricken.  Market Square is dominated by the Belfry which is an 83 meter high tower symbolizing the power and love of freedom of the burghers (citizens) of medieval Brugge (13th century).

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