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The ISDS 2017 meeting will take place in the beautiful decor of Bruges (Dutch: Brugge). Bruges is an attractive unique pedestrian medieval town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage. It is also called "The Venice of the North" and is the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in the Flemish Region of Belgium in the northwest part of the country (approximately 100 kilometres/62 miles from Brussels). The city's total population is more than 117,000, of which around 20,000 live in the historic centre.

Bruges is filled with Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance façades; plenty of art, culture and history; and some fine Belgian cuisine. Walking along the maze of winding cobbled alleys and romantic canals, you imagine yourself to be in medieval times. The wealth of museums is a striking image of this city's stirring history. The restaurants in Bruges offer gastronomic cuisine and the excellent hotels are a true feast for those who enjoy the good things in life. And of course a visit to Bruges wouldn’t be complete without a canal or carriage ride, sampling the chocolates, waffles, moules et frites (mussels and French fries), shopping for craft work including Bruges famous lace, visiting museums and art galleries, climbing the 13th century belfry or trying several of the more than 350 Belgian beers.

Some aspects of the City of Bruges:

The Flemish primitives

In the 15th century-Bruges’ golden century-the fine arts reached their highest form of expression. Famous names such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling came to live and work in the city. Today, you can still admire the magnificent paintings of these world-famous Flemish primitives, standing face to face with masterpieces that were created more than 500 years ago in the very heart of Bruges.

Sint-Salvatorskathedraal (Saint Saviour's Cathedral)

Bruges’ oldest parish church (12th–15th century) has amongst its treasures a rood loft with an organ, medieval tombs, Brussels tapestries and a rich collection of Flemish paintings (14th-18th century). The treasure-chamber displays, amongst others, paintings by Dieric Bouts, Hugo van der Goes and other Flemish primitives.

Hansa Quarter

From the 13th to the 15th century, Bruges was an important trading centre at the crossroads between the Hansa cities of Scandinavia, England and Germany (known collectively in those days as the ‘Easterners’) and the most important commercial regions in France, Spain and Italy. The Spanish traders established themselves at Spaanse Loskaai (Spanish Unloading Quay), while the Easterners set up shops on the Oosterlingenplein (Easterners’ Square). Places where you can still feel the atmosphere of days long gone by.

Jan van Eyckplein

Standing in the middle of the square the renowned Bruges painter Jan van Eyck (1370-1441) proudly overlooks the domain that wears his name.Still, he has to share the limelight with the square’s alluring style for once this was the old harbor of Bruges where ships loaded and unloaded. Even though fierce traders and rich poorters (citizens with city rights) no longer populate the square, it still holds a captivating appeal. While you’re discovering Jan van Eyck square The little bear of Bruges approvingly looks over your shoulder. Stroll around, admire the pretty facades of the Old Tollhouse, Pijndershuis and Burgher’s Lodge or simply take pleasure in a short break along the canal. Jan van Eyck square is furthermore an ideal gateway to explore the tranquil St.-Anne quarter with its working-class neighbourhoods.

Canals of Bruges

Experience the city by following an ageold tradition. Cruising Bruges’ canals-the remarkable city arteries-you will discover secret gardens, picturesque bridges and wonderfully beautiful views. Although it sounds incredible, Bruges’ loveliest places ooze even more charm when you admire them travelling by boat.

Rozenhoedkaai

Summer or winter, morning or evening, sun or rain…Rozenhoedkaai has the enthralling ability to always make a stunning impression.It should come as no surprise that this continuous to be one the most photographed spots in Bruges. Here anyone can create his or her picture perfect postcard of Bruges. Rozenhoedkaai’s sophisticated class makes it the ideal location to pause for a moment and together with your loved one enjoy one of Bruges’ most timeless sceneries.

City of Bruges

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