Bruges (Brugge) was an important trading Port from the 12th to the 15th Century. When its estuary silted up, Bruges lost its trade to other cities.
History has conspired in favour of Bruges though. The city was not involved in the theatre of war during WWI and WWII so the old city buildings remain intact.
Today Bruges is one of the best preserved Medieval cities in Europe, making it the most popular destination in Belgium.
[Belfry]
[Rozenhoedkaai]
[Canal and Bridge]