05/04/2022
Grote Markt, Market Square
The central location of the Market Square means that once upon a time it was the site of all the important events, a lively commercial activity and the location of the administrative offices. The first information about the trades dates back to the 10th century. In the beginning, the rows of stalls were made of wood, and then they were replaced by stone ones.
What to visit in Bruges, being on the central square? One of the oldest buildings on the square is the Bowkhout on the west side. It has 15th century stained glass windows and a weathervane made by craftsmen in 1682.
There were covered piers on the east side of the square. Then, after a fire the structures were demolished, and in their place a group of buildings was erected, where now there is the Governor's residence, the courthouse, the Post Office, as well as the museum "Historium". In the center of the square is a monument to the heroes of the liberation movement.
In 1995, after restoration work, cars were prohibited on the Central Square and it became pedestrian. Many souvenir shops and stores, small restaurants and cafes are located around the perimeter of the square. On Wednesdays, the market is open.
