Brugge

Brugge, or Bruges (pop. 116,700), well-preserved medieval city in northwestern Belgium. Once a center for wool trade, in the 15th century it was home to a school of painting led by the van Eycks and Hans Memling. Its commercial interest revived in the 19th century when the Zeebrugge Canal to the North Sea was opened. It manufactures lace and textiles.

See also: Belgium.