Gunpowder Tower (Poertoren): A Sentinel of Bruges' Past
Discover the Poertoren in Bruges: a historic gunpowder tower offering a glimpse into the city's medieval past and defensive strategies.
The Gunpowder Tower (Poertoren), a robust 18-meter-tall structure, stands as a proud reminder of Bruges' medieval defenses. Built in 1397, it initially served as part of the city's water gate. Later, in 1477, it was converted into a gunpowder store, lending it the name it carries today.
A brief summary to Gunpowder Tower (Poertoren)
- Begijnenvest 1, Bruges, Brugge, 8000, BE
- +3250444646
- Visit website
- 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
- Visit the nearby Lovers' Bridge and Minnewater Lake for picturesque views and a romantic atmosphere.
- Explore the peaceful Gunpowder Tower Park at the foot of the tower, accessed via a metal staircase.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Begijnenvest for a complete Bruges experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Markt (main square), head south towards Sint-Janshospitaal. Continue along Korte Zilverstraat until you reach Kruisstraat. Turn left onto Kruisstraat and walk until you reach Begijnenvest. Turn right, and you'll see the Gunpowder Tower at Begijnenvest 1. Alternatively, from the train station, exit onto Stationsplein and walk towards Langestraat. Follow Langestraat until you reach Oude Zak. Turn right onto Oude Zak and continue to Begijnenvest. The Gunpowder Tower will be on your left. Walking from the Markt will take approximately 15 minutes, while the walk from the train station is around 20 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Bruges train station, take bus lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16 or 23 to the city center. Get off at one of the stops within the city gates, such as 't Zand, Sint-Salvatorskerk, Markt, or O.L.V. Kerk. From there, follow the walking directions to the Gunpowder Tower. A single bus ticket costs €3.00 if purchased in advance at a kiosk or €3.50 if bought from the bus driver. A day pass is available for €5.00 at kiosks or €7.00 on the bus. If you park at the Centrum-Station car park, free bus tickets to the city center are available.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Bruges. A taxi ride from the Markt to the Gunpowder Tower typically costs around €14.9. From the train station, the fare would be approximately the same. Taxi fares in Bruges start at €2.40, with a per-kilometer charge of €2.50 during the day. Waiting time is charged at €30.00 per hour.
Discover more about Gunpowder Tower (Poertoren)
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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