Exploring the History and Charm of Brugge, Belgium -

One of our favorite cruise excursions was in Bruges, Belgium where we engaged in a tour of the medieval history of this charming city. 

Had To Eat Belgium Waffles

This included my husband indulging in Belgium waffles. I could not find gluten-free waffles, so I settled for Belgium chocolate. Chocolatiers were on every street with types of chocolate than I have ever seen. 

Read on to hear and see more about Bruges.

Belgium is famous for it's waffles 

Albert enjoying Belgium Waffles topped
 with fresh fruit and clotted cream (which cost extra)

Large Tour Group of 50 

Our tour guide gave us all ear phones which connected to her microphone. We were able to hear her a half block away so despite the very crowded streets and our tour of 50 persons, we didn't get lost. In addition, she gave us an emergency number to text her if we did. This way we could hear what she was saying despite the large group. 

It was a lot of walking! This was not for sissies. We walked for an hour and half on old cobblestone streets. The town was historic dating back to at least the 9th century, with buildings that are grand and beautiful.  Some areas had canals which reminded us of Venice.  

                 The Belfry of Brugge 

Large Market Area in Brugge 

The Beautiful Canals 

The Story of the Swans in Brugge-

Our tour guide told us that the swans in Brugge have a fascinating history intertwined with the city's history and folklore. Legend has it that in the 15th century, the people of Brugge were condemned to poverty and starvation due to a tyrant ruling over the city. The tyrant's punishment for disobedience was severe: he ordered the execution of one of the city's most prominent citizens, Pieter Lanchals whose family crest featured swans.

As he was being led to his execution, he told the people of the city to keep swans in Bruges, and as long as there were swans, the city would remain free of tyranny.

After Lanchal was executed, the people of Bruges kept swans in the city's canals and lakes as a symbol of resistance against oppression. 

Over time, this tradition and swans became a symbol of Brugge, and swans can always be seen in Brugge's waterways and parks.

If a swan dies, it is immediately replaced to make sure there is always good luck and freedom in Brugge. 

I finished my tour and hit quite a few of the chocolate shops. 

The day was memorable! We loved our day in Brugge!

My Notes: How do you spell Bruges ? Brugge? 

Bruges is the English and French spelling and pronunciation . 

Brugge is the Flemish spelling and pronunciation. 

Either is considered correct.