Bruges, between past and modernity

Bruges, Belgium

By Thibaut Hugueny - Blog I 

Bruges is a medieval city built on a natural man-made watercourse, giving it the nickname of Venice of the North. In a country where unity is an abstract notion, Bruges is the pride of the entire country of Belgium. Dutch speakers cherish their urban gem, best represented by the richness of the Flemish culture and Walloons agreed on the importance of the city within the context of the Belgian significance in the world. Andersen or Grimm brothers would probably not have disowned the idea of such a city as the setting of their fairy tales.

The magnificence of Bruges' architecture brought it an international fame. The fact that Bruges still has its medieval city intact greatly influences the spirit of the city. Bruges is called the "Egg" due to the shape of the medieval city; the fortification system consists of canals reinforced by military buildings. This impenetrable stronghold, used to defend the city against the invaders in past times, today is also serving as a protection against the modernization of the historical city. As an example, the train station remains at the edge of the urban place. The Venice of the North now receives visitors from every corner of the world. Tourism makes Bruges a lively city and positively impacts the economy. However, the flood of visitors also alters the authenticity of the place. Electric boats driving on the canal, the massive number of Japanese visitors, or the relocation of the traditional brewery out of the "yolk"(remember the egg-shape) of the city would surprise the  Flanders of the past about the city's evolution.

The disappearance of the brewery is a symptomatic "change of spirit" that occurred in many medieval cities. Beer is an integrale part of Belgian culture. Indeed, breweries existed in this part of the world long before the country was named Belgium. Short after the independence, the industrialization and the peaceful situation of Belgium allowed the development of breweries inside the wall of cities, Bruges in particular. From the forty breweries that existed during the 1940s in Bruges, only the Brouwerij De Halve Maan remains. Considered as an historical site, Bruges city council acted to preserve the last vestige of an activity that has been an active part of Bruges economy. The new social requirements and the model of urbanization required the medieval Bruges to evolve. During the nomination of Bruges as the 2002 European City of Culture, a new performing arts building was built. The modern style of the building contrasts sharply with the uniform architecture of the medieval city. This building is not yet appreciated by Bruges’ residents because of its stark difference with the traditional style of the city.

Visiting Bruges reminds us of the atmosphere of the past, yet its modernization comes in increments. Some say such modernization comes at the expense of its unique spirit, others say it needs to adapt for its survival in a society that is in constant motion. However, all can agree to the magnificent aura reflected by this city.