Travels in Europe, Summer 2004
Bruges
In the late middle ages, Flemish cities became widely known for their
high quality textiles. In the 13th century, Bruges emerged as a major center of the cloth trade. Bruges' second
period of prosperity was during the 15th century, many of the original guild halls on the market square were
built during this time. In the late 15th century, the river Zwin which linked Bruges to the sea began to
silt up, cutting off trade. The Hanseatic league moved its headquarters from Bruges to Antwerp, and political
conflicts further imparied the economy. With many of the buildings empty, a former hub of Europe slept for
400 years. Because of this, the old city was preserved fairly intact. In the 19th century, people began to visit
to see the "dead city." This trickle of visitors gradually grew into the thriving tourism industry that exists
today, and the city is largely restored to its former glory.
Swans in the canal.
The canal circling the old center city.
An ornate arch, part of the Stadhuis, Belguim's oldest town hall.
The city crest on the Stadhuis.
The front of the Stadhuis.
Ornate carvings on a church.
Gothic doors.
Hungry?
The statue of two guild leaders who led a successful revolt against the
French in 1302.
Just as the earth has a molten iron core...
Spires
The 83 meter high Belfort, built in the 13th century.
Horses lined up in the morning, they will have a busy day giving nearly
continuous rides around the old city.