Bruges belfry

  1. Home
  2.  › 
  3. Belgium
  4.  › 
  5. Bruges

On the edge of the Grote Markt, Bruges' central market square, the 83-metre-high Belfry is not just a beautiful eye-catcher. With an admission ticket, you can take advantage of its height and ideal location in the middle of the city for a breathtaking view over Bruges. However, you will need to be in good shape to climb the more than 360 steps to the viewing level.

History of the Belfry

The Belfort bell tower was built in the 13th century as part of the market halls of the time. Attached to the cloth halls, the tower had several functions that changed over the course of time. Initially built as a storage facility, it made it clear to visitors to the city at the time just how wealthy Bruges was as a trading center.

In addition to this open display of economic power, the Belfort also had practical functions. Due to its literally outstanding size, the imposing building served to protect the city, as fires within the city or approaching potential attackers could be quickly spotted from its top. The striking of the bell was therefore both a clearly audible warning signal and a symbol of freedom.

Interesting facts about the Belfry

Just a few years after the belfry was built, its wooden spire burned down, along with the archive inside. The new tower structure survived a good 200 years before it too fell victim to a fire that destroyed the tower bell. The current neo-Gothic spire of the Bruges belfry dates back to 1822.

You probably won't notice it straight away, but the Belfort is actually the 'leaning tower of Bruges'. The tower leans about one meter without its statics suffering as a result.

Tourist significance of the Belfry

For city travelers, the Belfry offers an interesting view of the city's medieval layout. From up here, you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the market square or take in the architectural beauty of the city.

Another incentive to climb the spiral staircase is the treasury, which you can visit before climbing the final steps to the viewing platform at the carillon. If a larger tour group wants to climb the Belfry before you, there may be minimal waiting times, as a maximum of 70 people are allowed in the tower at any one time.