Yesterday we wandered aimlessly about but today we set out to see a few areas in particular. Caroline kindly took some time to give directions and with a map in hand off we set.
Today is a special day in Brugge the whole town virtually comes to a halt to witness the procession of "The Holy Blood " there are streets blocked off for most of the day and most of the shops are shut but the touristy type places remain open and do a roaring trade.
The procession itself winds it way through the streets and it tells the story of the bible with groups of locals dressed in period costume enacting scenes from the bible as they make their way through the town. All in all it takes about three hours from start to finish .
People come from all over the world to witness the parade and some stay over night making it a very busy place for a few days. Those who are religious regard it all with special significance .
We had no intention to attend the parade as it would have meant standing for hours on end so we opted to take Caroline's advice and head for parts of town that are not effected.
We walked quite a long distance yesterday and today proved to be similar. Our walk took us to an area where the rich burgers had built housing for the poor, a sort of old time welfare program I suppose.
The cottages are in remarkable condition and are near a church but due to the celebration we could not take a look inside this one ( Bugger) We visited a convent where we had to walk quietly and speak in whispers as we strolled through the lovely gardens. There was a church here also and we had a look but were not permitted to take photos. We heard the Nuns praying and singing and that was very moving.
Every corner you turn presents another photo opportunity. This place is simply amazing the cobble stone streets show signs of wear with the doorsteps of the house also worn with foot traffic over the centuries
Lunch was fries and Beer though Lyn had coffee.The small restaurants were bursting at the seams and are doing a brisk trade. The weather not quite as sunny as yesterday but pleasant just the same. A touch warmer and we have been able to shed a layer of clothing .
We accidentally encountered the parade and were able watch a small part as it passed by and managed to take a few pics before returning to our digs for an afternoon drink and to prep for dinner .
Dinner tonight was just a short walk to a local "Eet Kaffee " the fireplace in side has a date of 1656 inscribed on it. I had a very nice Pepper streak with a huge bowl of chips while Lyn had a Chicken and Mushroom Vol- a-vent with salad accompanied with a couple of local beers.
Tomorrow we leave Brugge but with plans to return in the not to distant future.
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