Showing posts with label Rooftops. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rooftops. Show all posts

Saturday, 13 November 2021

Unveiling the Enduring Spirit of Bruges' Belfry

Bruges. The name alone conjures images of cobbled streets, serene canals, and a certain fairy tale charm. And at the heart of this enchanting Belgian city, piercing the sky with its ancient grace, stands a monument that embodies its very soul: The Belfry. More than just a pretty picture (though it excels at that!), this medieval marvel holds centuries of stories within its sturdy stone walls, tales of triumph, tragedy, and unwavering resilience.

Built around 1240, when Bruges was a bustling, vital trading hub of medieval Europe, the Belfry wasn't merely an architectural statement; it was the city's nerve centre. Imagine it: a hub of commerce, a beacon of civic pride, and a silent guardian overlooking the ebb and flow of daily life. Its initial purpose was multifaceted, serving not only as a majestic symbol but also as the repository of the city's most precious documents – the municipal archives. Tragically, these invaluable records were consumed by a devastating fire in 1280, a poignant reminder of the fragility of history.

And this wasn't an isolated incident. The Belfry, it seems, has a dramatic history with fire, suffering damage on at least two other occasions. These fiery trials have left their mark, literally. If you compare its current silhouette to historical depictions, you'll notice it's lower than its original height. The magnificent wooden spires that once crowned the tower, reaching even higher into the heavens, fell victim to these infernos, leaving behind a more stoic, yet equally commanding, presence.

Throughout its long and storied existence, the Belfry has worn many hats. Beyond the archives, it housed the city's treasury, safeguarding its wealth. It also served as a vital observation post, its lofty perch offering strategic views across the cityscape – perhaps watching for approaching threats or simply monitoring the bustling activity below. Interestingly, the Belfry also formally hosted a vibrant market hall, a testament to its integral role in the city's commercial life, with an enclosed courtyard to its rear providing a bustling hub for trade.

For those eager to truly connect with its history and soak in unparalleled vistas, the Belfry offers an unforgettable experience. Be prepared for a journey upwards – a narrow staircase of 366 steps leads to the observation platform. But trust us, the effort is amply rewarded. From a height of approximately 272 feet, the panoramic views of Bruges are simply breath taking, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding canals, and historic squares stretching out beneath you. (Tip for fellow photography enthusiasts: the pictures accompanying this post were captured in November 2015 using a Polaroid IS2132 bridge camera, a testament to the Belfry's enduring photogenic qualities!)

It's no surprise, then, that the Belfry's significance has been officially recognized. Since 1999, it has proudly held the esteemed status of a UNESCO World Heritage site, cementing its place among the planet's most cherished cultural treasures. Its fame, however, isn't limited to historical accolades. Modern audiences will recognize it from its prominent role in the critically acclaimed 2008 film "In Bruges," starring Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, and Ralph Fiennes. The film beautifully showcased the city's unique atmosphere, with the Belfry often serving as a silent, powerful backdrop to the characters' unfolding drama.

The Belfry of Bruges is more than just a bell tower; it's a living monument to a city's enduring spirit. It stands as a testament to medieval ingenuity, a survivor of trials by fire, and a timeless symbol of Bruges' unique charm. So, the next time you find yourself in this magical city, take a moment to look up, truly look up, at the Belfry. And perhaps, if you're feeling adventurous, climb those 366 steps. You'll not only be rewarded with a spectacular view, but with a deeper appreciation for the rich history and indomitable spirit embodied in this magnificent structure.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The Belfry from the market square.

The courtyard to the rear.

The Belfry from the Historium.



City Hall pictured from the Tower.


The clock mechanism.

The courtyard.

Market Square from the Tower.

View across Bruges.



St Salvator's Cathedral.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Sunday, 1 December 2019

Experience the Magic of Venice: A New Video Journey!

Get ready to be transported to the enchanting canals and historic piazzas of Italy's most unique city! I'm thrilled to announce my latest YouTube upload: "A Trip to Venice."

This captivating video, approximately 2.5 minutes long, is a curated collection of scenes I captured during my few days exploring Venice at the end of October and beginning of November 2018. From the moment you hit play, you'll glide along the iconic Grand Canal on a mesmerizing boat trip, witnessing the city's grandeur from its watery arteries.

The video also takes you through the bustling and magnificent St. Mark's area, showcasing its architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere. Beyond the famous landmarks, you'll discover various other short, intimate clips highlighting Venice's charming smaller canals, intricate bridges, and the timeless beauty of its ancient buildings.



Venice, with its enchanting canals and historic architecture, holds an undeniable allure. But in October-November 2018, during my visit, the city offered a stark, firsthand glimpse into its unique challenges. I arrived to find Venice battling what hotel staff informed me was its worst flooding since 1968. My 1-minute, 50-second video, "St Marks Square Flooding," captures various scenes filmed around the iconic square on random days and times during my stay, showcasing the pervasive nature of the acqua alta.


Waist-High Waters and Resilient Spirits

The moment I stepped off the vaporetto, the reality of the situation hit me – literally. I had to wade through waist-high water across St. Mark's Square just to reach my hotel. It was an immediate and unforgettable introduction to Venice's watery embrace. Every single day of my trip, the area was flooded to some degree, a constant reminder of the city's delicate balance with the sea.

What struck me most, beyond the sheer volume of water, was the incredible resilience of the Venetian people. They didn't lament or complain; they simply accepted the flooding as part of their everyday life. I saw locals navigating the submerged streets with a calm pragmatism, adapting their routines to the ever-present water. Their spirit was truly fantastic, a testament to generations of living in harmony with – and at the mercy of – the tides.

A Lingering Concern for Venice's Future

Recent news reports have sadly indicated that Venice has experienced even worse flooding since my 2018 visit. My heart goes out to the residents, and I feel desperately sad for the continuous challenges they face. It highlights the urgent need for long-promised flood defences, such as the MOSE project, to finally be completed and become fully effective. One can only hope that these crucial measures will soon provide the protection Venice so desperately needs, allowing its beauty and unique way of life to thrive for generations to come.

My video serves as a small, personal document of a truly impactful experience, a visual diary of a city learning to live with its extraordinary watery landscape.



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Exploring St. John the Divine: A Historic Gem in the Cliviger Valley

Tucked away in the scenic Cliviger valley, on the outskirts of Burnley, lies the beautiful and historic Church of St. John the Divine . This...