Bruge

Yesterday and today we have been in Brugge.  What a treat!!!  

This town has suffered very little damage in either war and is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe.  They have done a great job of preserving it and making it available to both residents and visitors. Because of its canals, it is often called "The Venice of Europe."

The center of town sits inside the moat which used to surround the city's walls.  The walls are gone but the shape and size of the town has not changed.  This is a Flemish town.  BTW, Belgium is a split country.  Half the country is basically French derived and speaks French with French customs.  The other half is more Germanic and speaks Flemish.  The citizens learn both languages.  

Belgium is officially bilingual.  A large number of their tourists are British so a large number of Belgians speak English.  Placards are printed in 4 languages, the list above plus German.  

The tourist area is quite compact, so it is easily seen by walking.  The Town Hall and anything around the main square are delightful.  There are also a variety of museums and activities centered on the crafts scattered in the area.

At one point during the early Renaissance, these cities were incredibly wealthy due to their skill at making fabric, tapestries, and lace.  So, over time they were ruled by the Spanish, the Austrians, the Hapsburgs -- anyone who had an empire in Europe going all the way back to Charlemagne and the Romans.  They still honor their skills making tapestries and lace.  Women (mostly) still do them and they are treasured.  The people are quite well educated and prosperous.