Bruges is that city that has never let my eyes rest for a bit. I was so astonished by the picturesque and architectural history of the city that at one point, I told myself "That's it; I have had seen enough of sightseeing". The center of the city is known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most preserved historic cities located near the canal like Amsterdam. Apart from preserved medieval historic settlements that evolved over the years, the city is also famous for Gothic Architecture which later became the identity of the city. History speaks everywhere and every corner of the city. During the 15th century, this city flourished as a trade hub and now, at present, the city holds the glory of the 15th century. The more you will see, the more you will know the history and will admire how beautiful a city can be.
So far after seeing so many cities, I also agree that this city is the most preserved medieval architectural city. The city is clean compared to many other cities and also crowded due to tourists. Well, there are many spots to see in Bruges, mainly tourist attractions and a day trip is perfect for Bruges. My trip was also a day trip and in this post, I am gonna write a very specific spot that is not only famous for photography but also a beautiful spot to enjoy the afternoon and evening city view.
Starting the photo series by sharing the famous spot of Bruges city. Whenever you browse to know more about the city, this spot photo will arrive first. It's not like this city has nothing to offer, it's just the internet, social media, or influencers who made this spot renowned.
From Almere (my city), Netherlands to Bruges, it takes around 3 hours by car. So, our trip was a day trip and after seeing so many locations, I was kinda tired and took a rest at De Burg - Public Plaza. While sitting there in front of the Gothic-style Stadhuis(municipality), Bruges, I saw tons of tourists were going through an alley adjacent to the Stadhuis building. I was enjoying my Belgium special hot chocolate but my curious mind told me to follow the crowd and I did that. I am glad I followed the crowd.
The alley or the street is known as Blinde-Ezelstraat, a photo spot and this small street connects two tourist spots, the Vismarkt (fishmarket) and the Burg. History says that in the 15th century, there was a pub called 'Den Blinden Ezel' located here. Blinde Ezel means brewers. The name basically referred to the habits of brewers. Of course, there more meanings were hidden behind those walls. The white structure you are seeing is called Brugse Vrije, the extension of 18th centuries court building. source
After crossing the street, I reached to Blinde-Ezelbrug bridge from where I saw and encountered the astounding canal cityscape of Bruges. The view of the canal was so different than Amsterdam and it was pleasant to see the architecture near the canal. It also represents how the city had flourished during the 15th century near the canal. All brick medieval buildings near the canal represent history. Excursion boats were full of tourists. People were taking photos, enjoying the sightseeing through boat riding while I was watching them from the bridge. 😀
After a little walk, I saw the sculpture of Frank Van Acker, a politician who is considered a hero of Bruges city. Here, the fish market is also located and if you follow the canal route, you will enjoy the canalside city view. There was a sitting area near the sculpture and I sat there for some time to enjoy the canal view.
Instead of following the canal route, I decided to see the fish market so following that street, I ended up at Huidenvettersplein.
Huidenvettersplein is a square of the city, known for its landmarks. Once this square was used by the sellers of scrap irons and later after the 14th century, this square was given to tanners. Due to the bad smell, leather processing came to an end afterward. Then this square became a small fish market and currently it is now a tourist spot. During Christmas time, some temporary Christmas shops are opened. Normally, it is now a restaurant area. source
On the building, you can see the small symbol of the fish market, two golden fishes.
The square was so crowded, people were having food and drinks there and I was following the crowd. After leaving the square, finally I came to Rosary Quay, the most spectacular canal view of the city. It's a major tourist spot and so crowded.
Fun Fact: The building near the canal, I thought it might be some kind of historical building but later I found out it's a hotel called Bourgondisch Cruyce.
From here, anyone can take a cruise boat and can have a city tour by boat just like in Amsterdam. Well, I didn't want boat riding so I had decided to spend some time here, near the canal. The entire street was crowded, full of tourists. People were taking photos. I had found a tiny spot to sit there to enjoy the evening view. From this point, the famous "The Belfry" and "Church of Our Lady Bruges" can be seen.
Here I am walking with a curious mind, holding a chocolate packet.
I find this photo funny though.
Anyway, I took a walk near the canal following the same spot and have taken some nice photos.
History says that once upon a time, rosaries used to sell here that's why this spot is called Rosary Quay. Currently, this is the hotspot for photography for the photogenic scenario. The shops are decorated, and each building has its own character. This spot is connected to major tourist spots of the city.
Sometimes what you see on the internet, reality is completely different in person. I would say this place is way more amazing in person than in the photo. I guess, this city's people are blessed to have a such spot in their city.
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Priyan...
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.... An architect, a dreamer, and a passionate writer who loves to write about life. I try to present my own perspective and experiences. Please leave your feedback and criticism because it's the only way I can know and reach your mind and thoughts easily...
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