Jan van Eyckplein, Bruges

Jan van Eyckplein is a historically rich square located in the heart of Bruges. The square's development traces back to post-1787, following the demolition of the New Year's or Sint-Jansbrug and the vaulting of part of the Kraanrei canal. This transformation marked the birth of the square from a space once dominated by the New Year's Bridge, a structure noted in records as early as 1282 and rebuilt multiple times until its final form in 1444 as a stone arch bridge adorned with statues.

The area initially continued as Sint-Jansbrug until the French occupation when it began to be known as an 'Academy site', reflecting the presence of a drawing and painting academy. The square was renamed 'Jan van Eyckplein' in 1844 in honor of the renowned painter Jan van Eyck, who was commemorated with a statue in 1856, although this was later relocated.

The square's architecture is indicative of its former commercial importance, hosting significant buildings such as the Burgher's Lodge (Poortersloge), and the Tolhuis, and several structures with characteristic large gates and wooden shutters. These buildings reflect the mercantile roots of the area, which now serves primarily residential and catering functions. Notably, until World War I, it was colloquially known as Petattenmarkt due to the weekly potato market held there.

In 1847, a proposal by architect Jean-Brunon Rudd to expand the square was met with resistance and ultimately not realized. The current statue of Jan van Eyck, mounted on a high bluestone plinth and designed by Hendrik Pickery in 1878, underscores the square's continuous evolution and significance, both culturally and historically, within Bruges.