Brugge

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Brugge

Brugge

Bruges is the largest city in West Flanders. Its historic Old Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. In 2002, it was the European Capital of Culture at the same time as Salamanca. The city is often referred to as the "Venice of the North", as it is crisscrossed by numerous canals. The remains of the old fortifications and mills surrounding the old town are located alongside these canals. Bruges is one of Europe's outstanding landmarks because the city center has changed little since the Middle Ages. Bruges' medieval architecture is largely intact, making it one of the best conserved medieval cities in Europe. Among its medieval buildings is the Church of Our Lady, with a brick tower 115.6 m high, making it the second tallest brick tower in the world. The statue of the Madonna and Child in the transept is thought to be the only sculpture by Michelangelo to have been taken out of Italy in his lifetime. Bruges' most famous attraction is the Belfry of Bruges, a 13th-century bell tower housing a town carillon of 47 bells. The city still employs a full-carillonneur who performs free concerts regularly. Bruges is also the location of a third UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ten Wijngaerde Béguinage, a 13th century beguinage, is a World Heritage Site of the "Flemish Béguinages". Bruges is also known for its beautiful lace.