Belgium
Chapter two
A few more days in Bruges.
I spend a lovely few days in Bruges, exploring the city when I can. It’s not quite what I had expected, a hazy memory of the film In Bruges not enough to give me a solid picture of what the city is like.
At one point, walking down a small alley, I come across a couple in conversation with a man on his own. He had asked them why they had come; they had told him it was partially because of the film. Excitedly, he points out that we are standing in front of the hotel where the characters stayed and motions towards the window from which one of them jumps into the canal. I have a vague memory of this. The man continues on with trivia and information from the film; the couple seems eager to move on. I take a look around to remind myself for when I will rewatch the film. I still haven’t had the opportunity to.
While exploring the city I stop into a few places I had previously missed. On one stroll around town I stop into the City Hall to admire its golden rooms and murals.
But what I find myself loving most is walking the cobblestoned streets, sometimes with a destination in mind, happy to divert my path if something catches my eye. Inevitably, I find myself returning to familiar spots. The tourist center isn’t large, and it’s easy to circle back around to the main squares and sights.
Fulfilling my tourist obligations I stop into the Church of Our Lady to admire the art and architecture and visit the tombs of Charles the Bold and Mary of Burgundy.
Another day I ducked into Sint-Salvatorskathedraal while searching for a chocolate shop. Further north, I came across Ivan Argote’s sculpture “Who?” standing alone in the canal, installed as part of the Triennal Brugge.
I wandered past colorful corners and stumbled upon local parks.
One afternoon, while walking to lunch, I passed a section of the canals set aside for swimming. I looked at the time, wondering if I had time to fetch my swimsuit and take a dip. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t be able to make it before they close for the day.
It’s a lovely few days in Bruges, a perfect summer visit. The days are warm, the evenings comfortable. If I could have gone for a swim, it would have been the perfect plus visit. As it was I have to settle for perfect :-). 🇧🇪
29 & 30 July 2024
