Burg

The Burg is one of the city's most beautiful squares. The southern part of this square is fringed with some of the city's finest buildings. Located right next to Markt Square, it is rather small but no less magnificent.

Breidelstraat, east of Markt leads to Burg. Named after the fortress built here by the first count of Flanders, this square is a reflection of the wealth of the city. Burg has remained the centre of political and ecclesiastical power. The Stadhius (city hall) on one side, has survived, but the St. Donaaskathedraal, on the other side was destroyed by the French Army. Stadhuis (City Hall)- Bruges has been governed by the 14th century City Hall. It is a remarkable building with exemplary architecure. The Gothic Hall and the Historic Hall are rich insights into history and art prevalent then. The Museum, in the main hall showcases several interesting artefacts. Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed (Basilica of Holy Blood) - On the right of the Stadhuis, towers the Basilica. It is comprised the æRomanesque style lower chapel and upper chapel, known to house the crystal vial containing a drop of Christ's blood and the relics of St. Basil. Each year in May, the crystal vial is paraded in the streets of Bruge as part of the Procession of the Holy Blood.