Belgium, a hidden gem in Europe, offers a mix of history, art, and delicious food. From the canals of Bruges to the grand squares of Brussels, this country has something for everyone. Let’s take a trip through these two amazing cities.
Bruges, called Brugge by the Flemish people, was once a major trading center. Its name comes from the Viking word for wharf, showing its long history as a hub for business.
In the 14th century, Bruges was a wealthy city, as big as London. It was the middleman for trade between northern and southern Europe. The city’s canals were used to move goods. Today, they offer great views for visitors.
During the 15th century, Bruges was a peaceful place where commerce and art grew. But in the 16th century, the harbor became blocked with silt. Trade moved to Antwerp, and Bruges’ Golden Age ended. For many years, the city was quiet. But in the 20th century, tourists discovered its beauty. Now, Bruges is a popular place to visit.
Bruges is known for its fine chocolate. You’ll see chocolate shops everywhere. Locals buy fresh chocolates daily. Dumon, a family-run shop, is a favorite. They make a dark, creamy chocolate called ganache that chocolate lovers enjoy. The Chocolate Line is another famous shop, known for its creative flavors, like Cuban tobacco.
The market square is the heart of Bruges. It’s surrounded by restaurants, old buildings, and a bell tower. The bell tower has stood since 1300. If you climb the 366 steps, you’ll see a great view. The tower also has a carillon. You can listen to free concerts in the courtyard.
Burg Square is the historical and religious center of Bruges. It has beautiful architecture from six centuries. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a highlight. It was built by a crusader to hold drops of Christ’s blood. Inside, the church has a simple style. Stairs lead to the upper chapel, which is brighter and more modern.
The town hall was built in the 15th century. It was a model for town halls in other cities. One of Europe’s first governments met here. Old paintings and maps show how little the city has changed.
A great way to see Bruges is by bike. You can rent a bike and explore the back streets. You’ll also find the smell of French fries tempting. In Belgium, fries are a local favorite and an art form. They are cooked twice for the perfect crispness.
In the 1500s, lace became fashionable. Women made lace by hand, earning extra money. A school in Bruges keeps the lace-making tradition alive. People come from all over the world to learn these old skills.
The Gruuthuse Museum is a 15th-century mansion. It shows how a wealthy merchant lived. The museum has furniture and tapestries. The tapestries tell stories of love and marriage in the 1600s.
The Church of Our Lady has stood for 600 years. Inside, you’ll find the tombs of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold. The church also has a “Madonna and Child” statue by Michelangelo. It’s the only one of his statues to leave Italy during his lifetime.
Across the street is St. John’s Hospital. It shows how the sick were cared for long ago. The hospital also displays paintings by Hans Memling. Memling was a master of Flemish art. His “St. John’s Altarpiece” was made to comfort patients. It shows a scene of heaven.
Belgium is famous for its beer. It has many different types. A local favorite is Straffe Hendrik. You can take a tour of the brewery and learn how the beer is made. Ready to taste some beer?
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the European Union. It’s a city with a mix of history and modern life.
The Grand-Place is the most beautiful square in Europe. It’s a short walk from the train station. Brussels started as a place to buy waffles on the way to Bruges. Then, it became a free-trade zone, and its economy grew. By 1830, it was the capital of Belgium.
The Town Hall stands over the square. The smaller buildings are former guild halls. They have fancy roofs and statues. The buildings were rebuilt after Louis XIV’s troops bombed the city in 1695.
Rue des Bouchers is Brussels’ restaurant street. The city is known for good food, especially seafood. A popular dish is mussels.
The Manneken Pis is a famous statue. It’s a small bronze statue of a boy. Visitors often bring it costumes.
Brussels has two great art museums. One has ancient art, and the other has modern art. The ancient art museum has works by Van der Weyden, Breughel, Bosch, and Rubens. Breughel’s “Census at Bethlehem” shows a village near Brussels. It’s full of life and detail. Peter Breughel the Younger’s painting, “The Struggle between Carnival and Lent,” shows a battle between feasting and fasting.
The modern art museum has art from the 19th and 20th centuries. You can see works by Rene Magritte, a Belgian surrealist. He mixed real objects in strange ways.
Many tourists love Brussels’ waffles. The city is also a center for politics. It’s home to the European Parliament. Visitors can learn about the European Union and see where the members meet.
Belgium offers a unique travel experience. From the charming canals of Bruges to the political heart of Brussels, this country has a lot to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just good food and beer, Belgium is a place worth discovering.
Plan your trip to Belgium today!
Aveline Lux is a visionary writer and digital storyteller, using her blog on CitiWell Shop as a platform to explore the intersection of creativity, commerce, and culture.
Traveling extensively across continents, Aveline draws inspiration from different cultures and global trends, infusing her articles with unique perspectives and practical insights.
Aveline enjoys photography, hiking through nature trails, and curating playlists that fuel her creative process.
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