Bruges - Venice of the North - Private Tour from Paris

Bruges was first developped as a fortified position to protect the coast from the Viking raids. In the 12th century, a huge flood miraculously created new access to the North Sea, turning Bruges into a major European port. This was the beginning of an amazing development that made Bruges an international financial and trading center. The economic development attracted architects, artists, and painters, who led the Flemish Renaissance. In the 16th century, as the main access to the North Sea was sanding up, Bruges was on the verge of decline and could not resist the rise in power of Antwerp. It is only in the 20th century that the world rediscovered the treasures of Bruges, making it one of the most attractive towns to visit in Europe!