The market square in Bruges occupies a large space in front of the 83 metre high Belfort Tower and is surrounded by ancient buildings with fluttering medieval banners. In those distant times, the Grand Place with its shopping rows witnessed all the significant events taking place in the prosperous Bruges.
On one side of the square is a luxurious building belonging to the provincial government of East Flanders. On the other is the Hôtel Bouchoute, built in 1480, with a severe façade and a sundial and lion weathervane installed in 1622.
On the opposite corner of the street is Kraenenburg, the former residence of its owner in 1305, now a hotel. In the 15th century the house was used for the imprisonment of the Roman Emperor Maximillian and later by the aristocratic nobility as a place to watch festivals and tournaments. In the centre of the square is a modern monument to the citizens of Bruges who saved the city from danger.
Having visited the Grand Place at different times, one can visualise the daily life of the city. Low and long milk and vegetable carts pulled by dogs pass through it at an early hour, and later, wagons pulled by Flemish heavy horses.
A unique colour is created by the clergy and nuns in black robes and white bonnets or in grey and blue robes. On Sundays, peasants come to the square with a variety of goods, attracting the attention of not only locals but also tourists.
The many hotels and restaurants dating back to the 17th century and centred on the north side of the Grand Place will leave you with fond memories of your time in Bruges.
