Brugge Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Brugge

The capital of Belgium's West Flanders province, Brugge is a fascinating city, distinguished by its canals, cobbled streets and historic architecture. Sometimes referred to as the Venice of the North, this is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe – dating back over a millennium – with a history richer and longer than that of Belgium itself (established since 1830).

Originally a Gallo-Romanic settlement, the place first appeared in records as Bruggas, Brvggas or Brvccia, circa 840–875 AD. The name probably derives from the Old Dutch "brugga" (bridge) or the Scandinavian word “bryggja”, meaning a landing place or harbour.

Early on Brugge established itself as a commercial centre. A major premise for that was the tidal "Golden Inlet" strategically positioned at the crossroads of the northern and southern trade routes. In the Middle Ages, Brugge was part of the powerful Duchy of Burgundy and enjoyed reputation as the most influential and important city in northern Europe. Trading in Flemish cloth and other luxury goods fueled its cultural and economic boom, attracting wealthy bankers, merchants and noblemen, as well as prominent artists and craftsmen.

The rough period of decline, started in the 1500s, ended with a revival in the last half of the 19th century, when Brugge became prosperous once again as one of the world's first tourist destinations. The city was also mercifully spared from the destruction in both World Wars, safeguarding its unique character.

After 1965, the original medieval city experienced a "renaissance". International tourism continued booming in the early 2000s, attracting to Brugge annually some eight million visitors. The abundance of landmarks in the city center has earned it the title of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here are some of the top local landmarks:

Grôte Markt – the largest square in the city and a marketplace since 958; home to the Belfry, Brugge's most admired landmark.

Basilica of the Holy Blood – a place of pilgrimage, housing a venerated piece of cloth used to wipe the blood of Christ after the Crucifixion.

Stadhuis (Brugge City Hall) – one of the oldest city halls in the entire Netherlands region.

Steenstraat (Stone Street) – a historic road and major shopping street.

Minnewater (Lake of Love) – a place every bit as romantic and tranquil as it sounds.

For a closer acquaintance with these and other colorful landmarks of Brugge, take this self-guided introductory walk.