About this experience
Not all travelers make it to the northern part of Bruges, yet it is here where you can immerse yourself in the Belgian Middle Ages. We will walk through the quarters of craftsmen and merchants, talk about Flemish artists at Jan Van Eyck square, explore the Halls of the Bourse, and understand why the word 'bourse' originated in Bruges.
What to Expect
Unconventional Bruges Landmarks
From the city center through medieval streets, we will walk to the Royal City Theater, observe the Meat House, and discover the Halls of the Bourse: I will explain why Florence, Venice, Portugal, England, Amsterdam, and other cities and countries sought to build their own houses in Bruges. At Jan Van Eyck square, we will discuss the history of Flemish painting, and near the House with the Ghost, you will hear the urban legend of the lovestruck monk. You will see remnants of the first fortified wall from the 12th century, the Austrian House of Trade, one of the wealthiest in the 15th century, and admire the view of Bruges' seven bridges. Along the canal, we will walk to St. Anne's Church and to the familiar Jerusalem Chapel from the movie 'In Bruges,' built resembling the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. In the church, you will learn about the journey of the wealthy citizen and diplomat Anselm Adornes to the Holy Land. Then, you will find yourself at Bisschopsplein, encounter the Chocolate Museum on the way, pass through St. John's Square to the Bladelin mansion, where a branch of the Medici bank was located. And returning to the center, we will walk to the famous bistro 'The Black House.'
Life in a Medieval City: From Dukes to Artists
During the walk, you will be accompanied by stories, legends, and interesting facts about Bruges and its iconic figures. We will stroll through the quarters where merchants, traders, craftsmen, and artists settled in the Middle Ages. We will discuss what the words 'faith' and 'belief' meant for the medieval residents of Bruges. We will imagine how the Burgundian dukes came to the markets with their duchesses. And you will also learn why the word 'bourse' originated in Bruges, what the first bank looked like, and how the word 'bankrupt' came to be.
Who Will Enjoy the Tour
For curious travelers interested in the history of Bruges and eager to delve deeper into the city's culture.
Organizational Details
- Additional expenses: entrance to the Jerusalem Chapel (optional) - 8 euros for adults; visitors up to 25 years old - 4 euros; up to 6 years old - free. The chapel has a small exhibition hall and a cozy room where you can have coffee or tea for a minimal fee.
- Pick-up at the hotel is possible by prior arrangement
- The streets of Bruges in the city center are cobbled, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes
- We can take a short break along the way to have a cup of coffee in the trading part of the city, rarely reached by regular tourists
- St. Anne's Church and the Jerusalem Chapel with the sacred relic are open from 10:00 to 17:00 (closed on Sundays)
- If the tour is scheduled after lunch, you can visit the Bladelin mansion from the 15th century (open from 14:00 to 17:00)
