't Brugse Vrije, Medieval government building in Brugge, Belgium
The 't Brugse Vrije is a medieval government building in the heart of Brugge on Burg Square, built between 1434 and 1440. It contains several rooms featuring large wooden beams, old stone walls, and valuable decorations including tapestries and paintings.
The building was constructed from 1434 to 1440 after city leaders created a dedicated space for administration, and received a large courthouse addition in the early 1500s. After centuries of use as a government seat and court, it is now a museum managed by Musea Brugge.
The building's name, 't Brugse Vrije, means "the Free of Brugge" and refers to the medieval independence rights of the city. The rooms show how city leaders displayed their authority, particularly in the aldermen's chamber with its tapestries and paintings from centuries past.
The museum is centrally located on Burg Square in Brugge and is easily reached on foot, with a bus stop and parking nearby. The rooms are accessible for people needing assistance, and staff members speak multiple languages.
The most remarkable room is the aldermen's chamber with a grand fireplace built between 1528 and 1538 to honor Emperor Charles V, featuring carved oak statues and alabaster reliefs. Artist Guyot de Beaugrant created the alabaster decorations below the statues as a tribute to the imperial ruler.
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