Church of Our Lady, Bruges

The Church of Our Lady in Bruges, Belgium, stands as a towering testament to the city's rich medieval heritage. With its brick spire reaching an impressive height of 122 meters, it is one of the tallest structures in the country and a remarkable example of the soaring Gothic architecture that characterizes many of Europe's most revered ecclesiastical buildings.

Constructed over two centuries, from the 13th to the 15th century, the church embodies the evolving Gothic style, from its early pointed arches to the later, more ornate decorations. Despite the church's grandeur from the outside, the interior is equally captivating, with its vaulted ceilings and luminous stained glass windows creating an atmosphere of divine tranquility.

The Church of Our Lady is renowned not only for its architectural splendor but also for its art collection. The most famous piece housed within its walls is Michelangelo's Madonna and Child sculpture, which is remarkable for being one of the few of the artist's works to leave Italy during his lifetime. The sculpture's presence in Bruges is a testament to the city's historical status as a center of trade and culture.

Visitors to the Church of Our Lady can explore a rich array of chapels, each with its own history and treasures, including tombs of notable figures from Bruges' past. The church also provides an opportunity to climb the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city's picturesque streets and canals.