Smedenpoort — Attraction in Bruges

The Smidsepoort, Smedenpoort in Dutch, The Blacksmith's gate in English dates back from 1297-1299. the current gate was built on the remains of the old gate in 1367. The gate has undergone many changes over the centuries. The bronze skull above the left-hand passage recalls the execution of François Vander Straeten, who wanted to let enemy French troops into the city at the end of the 17th century. The severed head of this traitor was attached to the gate. There is no public transport available nearby, the main bus station is at 'tzand square which is on five minutes walkaway. The gate is surrounded by beautiful green park which has walking, jogging and cycling track. The canal flows under the gate and gives a...

The Smedenpoort is one of Bruges’ historic city gates, dating back to the 14th century. Located at the end of Smedenstraat, it has undergone several restorations over the centuries. A notable feature is the bronze skull above the left passage, commemorating a thwarted betrayal in 1691 during the Nine Years’ War. In 2012, pedestrian bridges were added to enhance accessibility while preserving its historical...

It is silly to give something like this stars, because it is just a nice little corner of a city with hundreds of wonders. But if you do make your way over to Smedenpoort while in Bruges, don't miss the bronzed skull of a long past traitor mounted...