After a much needed break we decided to check out Brussels. We took an early flight out with Ryanair. As you all know by now I'm a very anxious flier but all went well, although on reaching Charleroi airport their was light turbulence 😀
From the airport we took the flibco bus to Midi and then the uber to our airbnb. Petruta was waiting for us with the keys and gave us a very warm welcome.
Next we went shopping for food and came back to eat which by now was a very late lunch/dinner as we hadn't eaten anything since 6am. Rafa of course was in his element with all the variety of beer 😉
Enjoy our 1st day photos.
The Sint-Lambertuskerk, also known as the Church of Saint Lambert, is a historic church located in Brussels, Belgium. It is dedicated to Saint Lambert of Maastricht, a medieval bishop and martyr. The church has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, although the current building largely dates from the 18th century, with some parts possibly older.
The Sint-Lambertuskerk features a typical Baroque architectural style, characterized by ornate decorations, curved forms, and elaborate details. It serves as both a place of worship and a cultural landmark, attracting visitors with its beautiful interior and historical significance.
The Notre Dame du Sablon Church, located in Brussels, Belgium, is a renowned example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. Built between the 15th and 17th centuries, it stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural and religious history. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is also known as the Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon.
Notre Dame du Sablon is celebrated for its intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and impressive stained glass windows, which draw visitors from around the world. The church's interior is adorned with magnificent works of art, including sculptures, paintings, and altarpieces, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship of renowned artists throughout the centuries.
The Grand Place, also known as Grote Markt, is the central square of Brussels, Belgium, and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Renowned for its stunning architecture, historical significance, and vibrant atmosphere, the Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for tourists.
Surrounded by elegant guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King's House (Maison du Roi), the Grand Place is a breathtaking display of medieval and Baroque architecture. The intricate facades of the guildhalls feature ornate decorations, gilded statues, and impressive architectural details that showcase the wealth and power of Brussels during the Renaissance period.
In Brussels, as well as throughout Belgium, frites (French fries) are not just a beloved food but also a cultural icon. Belgian frites are known for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, achieved through a unique double-frying process. They are typically served hot, often with a variety of sauces such as mayonnaise, ketchup, and various specialty sauces like samurai sauce or Andalouse sauce.
Brussels boasts numerous friteries (fry shops) where locals and tourists alike can indulge in this delicious snack. Some friteries have become famous for their quality and authenticity, drawing long lines of eager customers.
Frites are deeply ingrained in Belgian culinary tradition and are enjoyed on many occasions, from casual street food to more upscale dining experiences. They are often served alongside other Belgian specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries) or stoofvlees-friet (beef stew and fries).
"Janneke Pis" is indeed another statue in Brussels, located not far from its more famous counterpart, the Manneken Pis. Janneke Pis translates to "Little Janneke Pee" in Dutch. Similar to the Manneken Pis, it is a small bronze statue depicting a girl urinating.
Janneke Pis is less well-known and less frequently visited compared to the Manneken Pis, but it still holds a certain charm and interest for tourists exploring Brussels. Like its counterpart, Janneke Pis has also been the subject of various interpretations and legends, contributing to the city's playful and whimsical atmosphere.
While not as iconic as the Manneken Pis, Janneke Pis adds to the quirky character of Brussels and serves as a lesser-known but still intriguing symbol of the city's cultural heritage.
The Delirium Café is a famous and iconic establishment located in Brussels, Belgium. Renowned for its extensive beer selection, it has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts from around the world.
What sets the Delirium Café apart is its staggering variety of beers, offering over 2,000 different types from around the globe, including Belgian Trappist ales, lambics, IPAs, stouts, and many more. The café's beer menu is so extensive that it has been recognized by the Guinness World Records for having the most varieties of beer commercially available in one place.
Located in the historic center of Brussels, near the Grand Place, the Delirium Café occupies multiple interconnected buildings, each with its own distinct ambiance and character. Its vibrant and bustling atmosphere, along with its eclectic décor adorned with beer memorabilia and paraphernalia, adds to the unique experience of visiting this renowned establishment.
The Mont des Arts, or "Hill of the Arts," is a cultural complex and public space located in the historic center of Brussels, Belgium. Situated between the Place Royale and the Place de l'Albertine, it offers stunning views of the city and is home to several prominent museums, libraries, and cultural institutions.
Originally conceived in the late 19th century as part of an urban renewal project, the Mont des Arts underwent significant development in the 20th century, culminating in its current layout, which features beautifully landscaped gardens, terraces, and architectural landmarks.
Among the notable attractions at the Mont des Arts are:
- The Royal Library of Belgium (also known as the Albertine Library), which houses extensive collections of books, manuscripts, and documents.
- The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, comprising the Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Modern Art, showcasing a rich and diverse collection of artworks spanning various periods and styles.
- The BELvue Museum, dedicated to the history of Belgium, offering interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.
- The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM), displaying a vast collection of musical instruments from around the world.
- The Coudenberg Palace archaeological site, where visitors can explore the remains of a medieval palace hidden beneath the streets of Brussels.
In addition to its cultural attractions, the Mont des Arts serves as a popular gathering place for locals and tourists, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city center. Its panoramic views, lush greenery, and architectural splendor make it a favorite spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and photography.
Bruges, also known as Brugge in Dutch, is a picturesque medieval city located in the northwest of Belgium. Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and winding canals, Bruges is often referred to as the "Venice of the North" due to its resemblance to the Italian city.
Key features and attractions of Bruges include:
Historic City Center: The heart of Bruges is its historic city center, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can admire stunning medieval architecture, including the Belfry of Bruges, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Markt square.
Canals: Bruges is crisscrossed by a network of canals, which are lined with charming buildings and connected by picturesque bridges. Boat tours offer a unique perspective of the city's architecture and provide insight into its history.
Chocolate and Lace: Bruges is famous for its chocolate shops, offering a wide variety of handmade chocolates and pralines. Additionally, the city is renowned for its lace-making tradition, with several shops selling intricate lace products.
Museums: Bruges is home to several museums, including the Groeningemuseum, which showcases Flemish and Belgian art, and the Historium Brugge, which offers interactive exhibits exploring the city's medieval past.
Markt Square: The Markt square is the central square of Bruges and is surrounded by colorful facades, outdoor cafes, and horse-drawn carriages. It is a lively hub of activity and a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
Beer Culture: Belgium is famous for its beer, and Bruges is no exception. The city boasts numerous pubs and breweries where visitors can sample a wide variety of Belgian beers, including Trappist ales, lambics, and abbey beers.
Our first stop was at Mamma Pancake
Obviousely we left our mark here!
The Beer Wall, also known as the Beer Wall Brugge, is a popular attraction located in Bruges, Belgium. It is a unique beer shop and museum dedicated to Belgian beer culture.
Key features of the Beer Wall include:
Extensive Beer Collection: The Beer Wall boasts an impressive collection of over 1,000 different types of Belgian beers, making it one of the largest selections in Bruges. Visitors can browse through a wide variety of local and international beers, including Trappist ales, lambics, blondes, dubbels, and tripels.
Decor and Atmosphere: The Beer Wall is housed in a historic building with charming interior decor that adds to its cozy and inviting atmosphere. The walls are adorned with beer-related memorabilia, vintage advertisements, and beer bottles from different breweries, creating a unique ambiance for visitors to enjoy.
Tasting Room: The Beer Wall features a tasting room where visitors can sample a selection of Belgian beers in a relaxed setting. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide recommendations and insights into the different beer styles and brewing traditions.
Beer Museum: In addition to its beer shop and tasting room, the Beer Wall also houses a small museum dedicated to Belgian beer culture. The museum offers exhibits and displays showcasing the history of brewing in Belgium, as well as the various ingredients, brewing techniques, and beer-related traditions.
Overall, the Beer Wall is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts visiting Bruges. Whether you're looking to explore Belgium's rich beer heritage, sample a variety of unique brews, or simply enjoy the cozy atmosphere, the Beer Wall offers a memorable experience for visitors of all backgrounds and interests.
"Torture Museum Oude Steen" or simply the "Torture Museum."
This museum is located in the historic Oude Steen (Old Stone) building, which was once used as a jail. The museum showcases various instruments and devices historically used for torture and punishment throughout Europe, particularly during the medieval period.
Visitors to the Torture Museum can explore exhibits featuring replicas and explanations of medieval torture devices such as the rack, the iron maiden, thumbscrews, and more. The museum provides insights into the darker aspects of European history and the methods employed for judicial and extrajudicial punishment in the past.
While the subject matter may be disturbing for some, the Torture Museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of justice and punishment in Europe and to reflect on the evolution of societal attitudes toward human rights and dignity.
The Market Square, known as the Markt in Dutch, is the central square of Bruges, Belgium. It is one of the most iconic and bustling areas in the city, offering a vibrant mix of historical landmarks, lively cafes, and colorful architecture.
Key features of the Market Square include:
Belfry of Bruges: The centerpiece of the Market Square is the Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower that dominates the skyline. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
Provinciaal Hof: Facing the Belfry is the Provinciaal Hof, a neo-Gothic building that once served as the meeting place of the provincial government. It features a stunning facade adorned with statues and intricate carvings.
Markt Square Cafes: The Market Square is surrounded by numerous cafes and restaurants offering outdoor seating, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the lively atmosphere.
Markt Square Events: Throughout the year, the Market Square hosts various events and festivals, including concerts, markets, and cultural celebrations. These events add to the vibrant energy of the square and attract visitors from near and far.
Architecture: The Market Square is lined with beautiful historic buildings, many of which date back to the medieval period. The architecture reflects the rich history and heritage of Bruges, with styles ranging from Gothic to Renaissance.
The Basilica of the Holy Blood, also known as the Heilig-Bloedbasiliek in Dutch, is a Roman Catholic basilica located in the heart of Bruges, Belgium. It is one of the city's most prominent religious sites and a significant pilgrimage destination for Catholics.
The Basilica of the Holy Blood is renowned for its stunning architecture and its association with a revered relic: a venerated phial said to contain a cloth stained with the blood of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, the relic was brought to Bruges from the Holy Land in the 12th century by Thierry of Alsace, Count of Flanders, after the Second Crusade.
The basilica consists of two chapels: the lower chapel, dedicated to St. Basil the Great, and the upper chapel, dedicated to the Holy Blood. The lower chapel features Romanesque architecture, while the upper chapel is adorned with Gothic elements and magnificent stained glass windows.
One of the highlights of the Basilica of the Holy Blood is the annual Procession of the Holy Blood, which takes place in Bruges every Ascension Day. During the procession, the relic of the Holy Blood is paraded through the streets of the city, attracting thousands of pilgrims and spectators.
The boat tours are a must!
The Jan Breydel Stadium is a prominent sports venue located in Bruges, Belgium. It serves as the home stadium for two of Belgium's top football clubs: Club Brugge KV and Cercle Brugge K.S.V. The stadium is named after Jan Breydel, a historical figure from Bruges who played a significant role in the Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302.
Curious note, we went through the cemetary to go to the stadium 😎
Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Situated in the western part of the country, Amsterdam is characterized by its unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation.
Key features of Amsterdam include:
Canals: The city is famous for its UNESCO-listed canal ring, which dates back to the 17th century. The canals, lined with elegant merchant houses and adorned with picturesque bridges, are a defining feature of Amsterdam's landscape.
Museums: Amsterdam is home to a wealth of world-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum, which showcases Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh, and the Anne Frank House, where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II.
Cycling Culture: Amsterdam is known as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, with an extensive network of bike lanes and dedicated cycling infrastructure. Biking is a popular mode of transportation for both locals and visitors alike.
Architecture: The city boasts a rich architectural heritage, with landmarks such as the Royal Palace on Dam Square, the Westerkerk church, and the iconic houses along the canal belt, exemplifying a variety of architectural styles, including Dutch Renaissance and Dutch Golden Age.
Cultural Diversity: Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures, with residents hailing from all corners of the globe. This diversity is reflected in the city's culinary scene, with a wide array of international cuisines available, as well as in its vibrant arts and music scene.