BELGIUM: Bruges ( Brugge), medieval city

Bruges (Flemish: Brugge) is the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in the Flemish Region of Belgium. Along with a few other canalbased northern cities, such as Amsterdam and St Petersburg, it is sometimes referred to as the Venice of the North. Bruges has a significant economic importance, thanks to its port, and was once one of the world s chief commercial cities. Bruges has most of its medieval architecture intact, making it one of the best preserved medieval towns, cities in Europe. The historic centre of Bruges has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Many of its medieval buildings are notable, including the Church of Our Lady, whose brick spire reaches 115. 6 m ft), making it the world s second highest brick tower, building. The sculpture Madonna and Child, which can be seen in the transept, is believed to be the only of Michelangelo s sculptures to have left Italy within his lifetime. Bruges most famous landmark is its 13thcen