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Jan van Eyckplein: A Historic Bruges Square

Discover the historic Jan van Eyckplein in Bruges, a picturesque square named after the famous Flemish painter, offering a tranquil escape.

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Jan van Eyckplein, named for the famed Flemish painter, is a charming square in Bruges with a rich history as a former harbor. Surrounded by notable buildings like the Poortersloge and Tolhuis, it offers a tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas.

A brief summary to Jan van Eyckplein

  • Jan van Eyckplein 4, Bruges, 8000, BE

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to experience a quieter atmosphere and capture beautiful morning light for photography.
  • Check out local cafes for traditional Belgian pastries while enjoying the ambiance of the square.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the nearby canals and explore the charming lanes and avenues surrounding the square.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Markt square, walk towards the Burg and then take Wollestraat, which leads directly to Jan van Eyckplein. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Bruges train station, take bus line 1 or 2 towards the city center. Get off at the 'Jan van Eyckplein' bus stop. The bus fare is approximately €3 for a single journey. Alternatively, take bus line 2 from Brugge Station perron A1 to Brugge Jan Van Eyckplein. The ride is approximately 11 minutes and costs €3.

  • Car

    Drive towards Bruges city center and use GPS coordinates 51.2115504, 3.2259152 to navigate to Jan van Eyckplein 4, 8000 Brugge. Parking in the city center can be limited. Nearby parking options include 'Parking Zilverpand,' a 10-minute walk from the square. Parking fees are typically around €3 per hour.

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Discover more about Jan van Eyckplein

Jan van Eyckplein, or Jan van Eyck Square, is a historically significant square in the heart of Bruges, Belgium. Named after the celebrated Flemish painter Jan van Eyck, who lived in Bruges in the 15th century, the square provides a glimpse into the city's rich artistic and mercantile past. Originally, the area was part of the city's outer fortifications in the 12th century and later evolved into a bustling harbor. By the late 18th century, most of the harbor activity had ceased, and the Spiegelrei canal, which ran through the square, was filled in, creating the space we see today. The square officially became Jan van Eyckplein in 1844. Today, Jan van Eyckplein is characterized by its historical architecture, including the Poortersloge (Burgher's Lodge) and the Tolhuis (Toll House). The square provides a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the nearby Markt and Burg squares, offering visitors a chance to admire the surroundings and soak in the history. A statue of Jan van Eyck stands in the square, commemorating the artist's contributions to the city and the world of art.

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