Entry for the architecturalphotography contest held by 
This last expression is in old flemish, and it means as much as "beautiful Bruges. As I live near Bruges, I have some expertise and knowledge about this city. It is in fact a beauty. People sometimes call it, the Venice of the North... I can not relate to that, as I have never been to Venice. But what I do know is that Bruges and Unesco did a wonderful job in protecting the ancient architecture. Almost every house in the centre is protected by Unesco World Heritage. And they are correct, for instance in this picture you see the front of houses that have been standing there for over more than 500 years, yes, I kid you not.
These walls have seen a lot in their lifetimes, and they will see much more to come.
Sometimes tourists ask me, and again, I am not kidding!, "at what time does it close?". Mostly Americans ask this, they really think it is like a big museum or amusement park. But no, it is still a vivid city, people still live in these houses, and they are expensive.
If you are in the neighbourhood, don't hesitate, and visit Bruges. You will not regret it!
Sincerely,
Pele23
