Bruges City Hall: A Gothic Masterpiece

Bruges City Hall, locally known as Stadhuis van Brugge, is a captivating Gothic building that has been the heart of the city's administration for over 600 years. Construction began in 1376 and concluded in 1421, establishing it as one of the oldest city halls in the Low Countries. Its design significantly influenced the architecture of town halls in Brussels, Ghent, Leuven, and Oudenaarde. The exterior of the City Hall is a sight to behold, characterized by its Bruges style of architecture, featuring a majestic sandstone facade with a vertical emphasis, decorative canopies, and intricate sculptures. Although many original statues were destroyed during the French Revolution, the current figures still evoke the city's storied past. Inside, the Gothic Hall is the highlight, featuring a breathtaking double wooden vaulted ceiling adorned with medallions and quatrefoils depicting scenes from the New Testament. The walls are decorated with murals by Albrecht De Vriendt, illustrating pivotal moments in Bruges' history. The historical room on the ground floor hosts a modern exhibition detailing the history of Bruges, offering context to the visitor experience. Today, the City Hall continues to host the Bruges city council's monthly meetings and serves as a venue for weddings.