Bruges (Broo-gha or Broozh depending if your French or Flemish) can trace its name from not the two predominate languages of the town but from the old Norse tongue the Vikings used. The name means Wharf, most likely because this was a trading post they frequented.

   The city grew quite prosperous due to Cloth trade by the eleventh century. By the 14th century, the population of the town was on par with London, England and was one of the most important cloth markets in Europe. They allied themselves with the dukes of Burgundy and became an important cultural and artistic center as well. During this time many of the buildings were erected. Spanning the early gothic to the late baroque period, there are buildings that reflect all of these periods. In Bruges square, there is a Gothic building covering a Romanesque church and behind it is a renaissance recorders office. Finishing of the square is a baroque edifice of a building. During its pinnacle, they even acquired an artifact from the second crusade, the blood of Christ.

  Unfortunately for the 17th century inhabitants, the harbor silted up and the town was abandoned for the most part. Bruges was rediscovered in the 20th century as a delightfully preserved town from the renaissance period. It has all you can ask for. Canals, magnificent buildings, a cool morning market, nice bell tower, good beer, better chocolates. And best of all, the tourists all leave in the evening. Alas, I only spent two days in this magnificent city, but I vow to return someday.

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