The Renaissance and Baroque architecture, artwork and religious buildings of Belgium are treasures to behold, rich in significance and beauty.
Tragically, many travel guides simply brush over these beautiful creations as mere items to check off a list during sightseeing in cities which together constitute the rich, centuries old essence of Flemish culture.
By contrast, Belgian Cities - A Travel Guide of Art and History is designed for tourists who wish to achieve an in-depth understanding during perusals of the wondrous achievements in painting, sculpture and architectural design pioneered and proliferated in the Belgian cities. Rich yet accessible descriptions of the most significant works, guidance through the hidden gems, old town districts and standout attractions abound. As a result, the curious reader is spurred to understanding a culture whose history and art can so often be overwhelming or mysterious to the visitor.
This book is designed as a cultural companion to a more general city and tour guide, to be read as you wander amidst the many breathtaking works of art and ancient designs that the cities of Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp and the capital Brussels contain. The many cathedrals, churches and art galleries are a fine highlight of the Belgian nation, with the period art and architecture dating between 1300 and 1700 a particular focus within this book.
In reading this guide composed by lecturer of art and heritage architecture Maxime Jensens, you will imbue your journey with enlightenment. Concluding your journey to Belgium, you will not simply carry happy memories of having seen and enjoyed the gorgeous culture, cuisine and fine hospitality - but a vivid, intense understanding of how significant and inseparable the country's art and architecture are from its very fabric and core of Belgian identity.
