The market square during WWI

The city halls served different functions during the war. At first, they provided shelter to Belgian reservists and refugees. During the occupation, they were used as a prison, and even as garage and kitchen.

Bruges was very popular with the German soldiers, as is evident from the countless photos they took of the Market Square. German fanfares and military parades provided the necessary entertainment. At the entrance of the Belfry, there was a newspaper stand for the German soldiers. Officers spent their time in the cinema that was transformed into a bookstore, library and reading room and had their meals in the Bruges officers' restaurant.

After the liberation, King Albert, Queen Elisabeth and Prince Leopold visited Bruges incognito. Later, on 25 October 1918, they were officially welcomed on the Market Square.

Vl. Toeristisch bezienswaardigheden