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Jan van Eyckplein: A Glimpse into Bruges' Golden Age

Discover Jan van Eyckplein in Bruges: a historic square where art, architecture, and the spirit of the Middle Ages converge.

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Jan van Eyckplein, a charming square in the heart of Bruges, is named after the renowned Flemish painter. Once a bustling port, it's now a peaceful square surrounded by historical buildings, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Jan van Eyckplein

  • Jan van Eyckplein 4, Bruges, 8000, BE

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the beautiful morning light for photography.
  • Explore the nearby lanes and avenues for hidden gems and unique perspectives of the city.
  • Check out the local cafes for traditional Belgian pastries while enjoying the square's ambiance.
  • Look for the VR viewer on the waterfront for an immersive experience of the 15th-century port quarter.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Jan van Eyckplein is easily accessible by foot from the Markt (main square). Head towards the Burg and take Wollestraat, which leads directly to the square. The walk is approximately 10 minutes, offering a pleasant stroll through Bruges' picturesque streets.

  • Public Transport

    From Bruges train station, take bus line 6 or 11 towards Dudzele and get off at the 'Jan van Eyckplein' bus stop. Alternatively, take bus line 1 to the city center and disembark at the 'Brugge Markt' stop, from where Jan van Eyckplein is a 10-minute walk. A single bus fare costs €3.00 if purchased in advance or €3.50 if purchased from the bus driver.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Bruges. A taxi ride from the Bruges train station to Jan van Eyckplein typically costs between €8 and €15, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi fares in Bruges start at €2.40, with a cost of €2.50 per kilometer.

  • Car

    If driving, navigate to Jan van Eyckplein 4, 8000 Brugge. Parking in the city center is limited. Consider parking at 'Parking Zilverpand' (a 10-minute walk) or 'Parking Centrum-Station' (near the train station). Parking fees are approximately €3 per hour. Free bus tickets to the city center are available when parking at Parking Centrum-Station.

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Discover more about Jan van Eyckplein

Jan van Eyckplein, or Jan van Eyck Square, is a historically rich and picturesque medieval square in Bruges, Belgium. Named after the famous Flemish painter Jan van Eyck, who lived in Bruges from 1430 until his death in 1441, the square provides a window into the city's golden age. In the Middle Ages, this square was the city's port, a bustling hub where traders from all over Europe gathered, creating a vibrant mix of languages and cultures. Ships docked here to load and unload goods, and the area was surrounded by important nation houses and warehouses. Today, the square is much calmer than the nearby Markt and Burg squares. The square was created at the end of the 18th century when most of the harbor activity had ended. The Spiegelrei canal, which once connected to the Dijver behind Burg Square, was filled in, creating space for the square. Prominent buildings surround the square, including the Poortersloge (Burgher's Lodge), known for its slender tower and statues, and the Tolhuis, a complex of buildings that once served as the city's toll house. A statue of Jan van Eyck, erected in 1878, stands as a tribute to the painter's legacy. Visitors can enjoy the square's tranquil atmosphere, admire the architecture, and explore the nearby lanes and canals. The square is a great place to start exploring the quieter working-class neighborhoods of Bruges.

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