Secrets of the Best-Preserved Medieval City in Europe (Video)
Bruges, Belgium is a living reminder of medieval splendor, stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its charm echoing through well-preserved buildings and winding streets. As the gateway to the North Sea, Bruges thrived through the Hanseatic League's trade, earning the moniker "Venice of the North." Notably, Flemish masters like Jan van Eyck flourished here, leaving an indelible mark on the city's artistic heritage. The market square, with its guild halls and belfry tower, epitomizes Bruges' historical and commercial core. An intriguing aspect is the consistent width of its medieval buildings, a result of early architectural limitations and the city's conservative ethos during the industrial revolution.
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Bruges serves as a canvas for Flanders' artistic renaissance, with original works by renowned painters displayed in situ. Exploring further reveals St. John's Hospital, where the convergence of art and healing is evident. This 12th-century institution houses Hans Memling's masterpieces, offering solace to patients through the beauty of religious artworks. From quaint streets to serene squares, Bruges invites visitors into a time capsule of Europe's rich past, where each cobblestone and building narrates tales of a bygone era.
Top image: Spiegelrei canal at sunrise, Brugge, Flanders, Belgium. Source: JFL Photography/Adobe Stock
