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Woensdagmarkt: A Historical Square in Bruges

Explore the historic Woensdagmarkt in Bruges, a square filled with history, culture, and the legacy of Hans Memling.

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Woensdagmarkt, or Wednesday Market, is a historic square in Bruges, Belgium, known for its rich history and the statue of Hans Memling, a famous Flemish Primitive painter. Originally named Oosterlingenplein, it evolved into a marketplace, eventually taking the name Woensdagmarkt from the Wednesday charcoal market. Today, it's a vibrant space reflecting Bruges' historical and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Hans Memling

  • Woensdagmarkt, Bruges, Brugge, 8000, BE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around the square to admire the architecture and soak in the historical atmosphere.
  • Visit the square on a Wednesday to experience the local market (though it may be held on the Burg square).
  • Look for the statue of Hans Memling, a famous Flemish Primitive painter, that stands as a centerpiece of the square.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Markt (main Market Square), walk northeast along Wollestraat, then turn right onto Genthof. Continue onto Woensdagmarkt. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Brugge train station, take bus line 1 or 2 and disembark at the Jan Van Eyckplein stop. From there, walk along Spiegelrei, turn right onto Genthof, and continue onto Woensdagmarkt. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. A single bus fare is around €2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bruges, including at the train station and Markt. A taxi ride from the train station to Woensdagmarkt typically costs between €10-€15. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Hans Memling

The Woensdagmarkt, nestled in the heart of Bruges, is a square with a captivating past. Initially known as Oosterlingenplein in 1458, the square emerged after the demolition of several houses. The name shifted in the 16th century to Koolplaats, as it became a hub for charcoal trading specifically on Wednesdays, thus earning the name Woensdagmarkt. The square is adorned with a white marble statue of Hans Memling, a significant figure in Flemish Primitive painting. In 1871, the square was renamed Hans Memlingplaats in his honor, but later reverted to Woensdagmarkt after the fusion of municipalities in 1971. Throughout the 19th century, Woensdagmarkt was known for its bustling trade in second-hand goods and clothing, gradually evolving into a contemporary market with diverse products. Although its market function diminished in the 1930s, the square remains a focal point. Today, Woensdagmarkt provides parking spaces and is shaded by large linden trees. While the Wednesday market sometimes moves to the Burg square, it is still a location to visit.

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