Things to do in Emelgem

Since 958, the Grote Markt has been at the centre of Bruges life. Once packed with merchants and buyers, today the Markt is a hub for tourism. Put aside some time to experience the restaurants, cafés, gift shops, guided tours and enchanting architecture of this lively part of the city.

The Menin Gate Memorial is one of four shrines in Ypres to the missing dead in Belgian Flanders during World War I. The large brick structure bears the names of more than 54,000 servicemen and women who lost their lives fighting for the Commonwealth Forces.

Ypres Market Square (Grote Markt) is a delightful plaza in the heart of the city. The square is surrounded by historical buildings that loom over café terraces, gift shops, fountains and, on Saturdays, market stalls.

You can't miss the Belfort. The city's majestic belfry rises 83 metres (272 feet) above the historical centre of Bruges. While it’s awe-inspiring to see from any angle, the Belfort itself offers incredible views of the rest of the city. You'll also pass fascinating features on the way up. Just make sure you are comfortable with heights.

The Begijnhof offers a rare and intimate experience of seeing nuns living and worshiping much the same as they would have done centuries ago. The Begijnhof or Beguinage name actually refers to a collection of small buildings used by Beguine nuns. Belgium has a number of existing begijnhofs; the one in Bruges is exemplary. The Beguines were a sisterhood formed in the 13th century. Many women joined the order following the depletion of Belgium’s male population due to war. The women were often supported by wealthy benefactors.

Heilige Bloed Basiliek, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, is one of a handful of places around the world claiming to have blood-soaked garments or vials of blood preserved from the life and death of Jesus Christ. Participate in a Friday mass to see the relic displayed before or after the service.