Burg Square

You can’t go to Bruges without seeing Burg Square, full of laughter and good spirits. Once a fortress dating back to the 2nd century, the square gradually saw the city expand around it. The 9th century was a turning point for Burg Square, when it became Bruges’ very first stronghold—built by Baldwin ‘Iron Arm,’ the first Count of Flanders, who later became the fifth King of the Belgians. Bruges is considered one of Belgium’s younger cities, with the first signs of human settlement appearing in the 9th century—right when Burg Square began taking on an important role. This is why for many, the square marks the very beginning of Bruges’ story. Let’s go back to the 9th-century, one of the city’s most turbulent periods. Bruges was frequently raided and held hostage by the Vikings, infamous for their violent and bloody campaigns. To protect the city, Baldwin established the County of Flanders, which soon became a major economic force for Bruges. Over time, the main square began to take shape, evolving into what you see today: Burg Square. To help you better immerse yourself in the city, you should know that it’s more commonly referred to in Flemish as “the Burg”. Beyond the beautiful architecture, the buildings surrounding the square are a stone timeline of Bruges’ history. Visiting this Square is like stepping into a time machine—right into the beating heart of Bruges.