Bruges
Bruges is one of the most important ports of Belgium - historically and nowadays. It is the main city and capital of the Flemish region of Belgium and the province of West Flanders. It has an egg-shaped historic center, amazingly preserved from the times of the city’s golden age. Today the center of Bruges is a World Heritage Site of UNESCO and one of the most attractive areas of Belgium.History reveals that the first city here was built at the time of Julius Caesar. They were meant to protect the coastal area from the attacks of the pirates. The town grew in a city and lived its flourishing in the period from 12th to 15th century. At that time the canals were built and industries developed. Main branches of local industry survived till today - wool and weaving in the past transformed into clothing and fashion today. The Golden Age also shaped Bruges as a political and cultural center. The New Flemish School created the new techniques of oil painting that became famous all over the world. The city hosted famous exiles from England such as Edward IV and Richard III and it was here that William Caxton produced the first book ever printed in English.
The city today has the charm of Venice with its romantic water canals and the beauty of Paris with the fully preserved historic center. Bruges is both - unique and lively in a modern way. The Church of Our Lady keeps the statue of The Madonna and Child - the only sculpture by Michelangelo that was brought out of Italy in his lifetime. Besides the many museums, the charming lace markets and small crafts shops, there is also plenty of fun with the Sint Michielis for instance - the amusement park and dolphinarium.