The Cultural Essence of Bruges

by Thomas Burtonelli

e Museums of Bruges

If you are planning to skip across the pond to Europe, you mustn’t miss the small town of Bruges, Belgium. While most people head to Belgium in search of fries and waffles, Bruges has a lot more to offer than standard fare. This town is all about museums of every shape and kind.

Though nobody has ever stopped to ponder why Bruges’ streets are lined with museum after museum, it just so happens to be the truth. If you are one of those tourists that doesn’t care for a bit of history, this town is picturesque enough to entertain even if you do not step inside a museum.

For those that love history, however, Bruges is a slice of heaven on earth. Within the historic section of the city you will find the Groeninge Museum; Gruuthuse Museum; Memling Museum; Renaissance Hall; Archeological Museum, Folklore Museum; and many more captivating glimpses into the past.

Let’s begin with the Folklore Museum since it is very popular with visitors. This museum is home to the 17th century almshouses that still belong to the Bruges cobblers’ corporation. You will find ancient classrooms, a cobbler’s studio, a Flemish home, and an ancient confectioner’s shop.

The Groeninge Museum is mostly a fine arts gallery that is home to many of the paintings done by local artists of Bruges. You will find works by Hugo van der Goes, Hans Memling, Gerard David, and Jan Van Eyck. This museum is worth a few hours just to see the many striking paintings held within.

Next up is the Gruuthuse Museum, which was once part of the Van Brugghe-van der Aa family estate. The family owned the only Gruut house in the area. For those of you who don’t know, Gruut was a type of medieval spice mix used to create beer. This museum is truly fascinating.

The Memling Museum is, essentially, a tribute to the life of artist Hans Memling. Hans Memling was one of the most influential Flemish painters, though he was actually born in Germany. The museum is bathed in light and paint – something that is not to be missed.

Unlike most of the other museums that Bruges has to offer, Renaissance Hall can really transport a visitor back to the palace of the Brugse Vrije. You will find that a 16th century Renaissance chimney, lots of gleaming wood, and plenty of fine alabaster do a nice job transporting you back in time.

Lastly, the Archaeological Museum is a perfect example of how life used to be in Bruges. Bits of glass, leather, metal, wood, and stone are showcased inside of this grand hall. Additionally, tourists will be treated to a fine display of murals from a variety of periods.

The beauty of Bruges, Belgium is multi-faceted. Museums are definitely high on the list of things to see, but it is a friendly city worth just strolling around in and definitely worth a visit on your travels.

About the Author:

Thomas Burtonelli is with NomadJournals.com – makers of diaries with cases to record trips and vacations that can also make great unique private label gifts for your business.

Thanks for visiting our Qivana site.