It seems that just about every sizeable city in Europe enjoyed a heyday as an economic powerhouse at some point in its history. Bruges’ time was from the 12th to the 15th centuries, when its coastal location and canal system made it one of the most important commercial centres of the continent. Today, the Renaissance-era architecture and canal system are still intact, adding much to the appeal of a town that looks like a slice of life from Belgium’s past. Our image features the Rozenhoedkaai canal, one of an intricate network of waterways that have inspired some to compare Bruges to Venice.