Impressions of Bruges #1

I recently visited Belgium for a few days, staying in the tourist hotspot of Bruges, a city I have never visited before.

Like most people, I had a vague idea of what to expect and I enjoyed wandering the streets with my camera and my guide book, seeking out the famous sights and the lesser known and quieter streets. I wasn't disappointed; it's a lovely and very interesting city. I've put together some posts summarising my impressions.

When I say 'Bruges', perhaps you think of the vast market square, the Markt, the heart of daily life in the city past and present, and a real tourist magnet. The huge Belfry, one of three imposing towers in the city, was built between 1280 and 1350, making it 700 years old! The octagonal tower was added in 1486 (and yes, it leans a bit!). I'm used to living with history but the age of some of Bruges' historic buildings is mind-boggling.

On another side of the square, the neo-Gothic Provincial House, originally a government building, dates back to the 1880s.

You're going to get rather a lot of holiday photos this year. This is simply because I have so much on the go during July so it is convenient to use the photos I have rather than trying to find time to go and take more. Salt & Light is temporarily decamped, therefore, to Belgium...