Kortrijk – A Flaxen Past
Kortrijk is a Flemish province in West Flanders, and is the capital of its own region. Its location on the River Lei resulted in early settlement by the Gauls and Romans. In the 15th century, the small village embarked on its present path towards wealth by discovering how to grow the material for, and produce, high quality cloth.
Today, staying at a Kortrijk hotel guarantees you access to a variety of experiences in the city. The city hosts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Beginage and the Belfry. From the large car-free city centre, to interesting architecture and a fascinating glimpse of history, this city offers much to its visitors.
National Flax Museum (National Vlasmuseum)
Leave the comfort of your Kortrijk hotel, and the centre of town, behind to experience how the city made its name. On the grounds of an old 19th century flax farm at Etienne Sabbelaan 4, you will learn everything about the craft of growing flax and producing linen. The exhibits consist of models, paintings, tools and various photographs of the past. You can watch a slide show on the farm or admire the exhibits of exquisite linen, lovely lace, fine embroidery and delicate damask.
The Groeningeabdij
Within easy walking distance of your fine Kortrijk hotel, you will find the Groeningeabdij. This restored brick building was once the local Abbey of Groeninge. Built in 1597, it contains the history of Kortrijk for the period up to the eve of World War I. The city’s prehistory dates back to around 1500 B.C. E. It took the Romans to create a settlement here, though the town did not gain a charter until 1190. Among the items on display are several references to the rise of the city through its industrial cloth base. Collections include silver, ceramics and damask.
Broelmuseum (Stedelijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten)
For a glimpse of how the wealthy of the city once lived, you need to visit the riverside mansion that houses part of the fine art and extensive museum collection. The museum complex consists of the 18th century French classical house, as well as the Orangerie and stable. Inside, you will find a wealthy trove of sculptures and paintings of artists connected with the city.
You can view works by the city’s most famous artist, Roeland Savery (1576-1639). He worked for the Emperor Rudof II in Prague. The museum also contains a compilation of ancient ceramics. Of particular interest is the display of the famous and unique damask. Kortrijik produced the fabric in the 17th and 18th centuries. Both collections are well regarded worldwide. An archaeology department rounds off the museum. You can locate it at Broelkaai 6 not far from many a centrally located Kortrijk hotel.
Shopping and Culture in Flander’s Largest Pedestrian Centre and Beyond
Why not combine local culture and shopping? The car-free historic centre of the city is an ideal place to spend some time. Leave your Kortrijik hotel room behind and head to the main shopping streets of Lange Steenstraat, Steenpoort, Sint-Jansttraat, Wijngaardstraat and several squares. Hit the shops and see the sights at the same time!
Be sure to take in the Gothic church of Notre Dame. This structure features two 13th century towers and a Baroque 15th century interior. Visitors admire the Chapel of the Counts, featuring mural paintings of the various Counts of Flanders and the “Forestiers.” Of particular significance is the “Elevation of the Cross”, painted by Anthony Van Dyck in 1631. Nearby is the renowned Beguinage.
For a brief and well-deserved respite, take a side trip to visit the 1638 Baggaertshof and sit inside the medicinal herbal garden. From here, you can enjoy the view of 13 historic houses. You can head back to your Kortrijk hotel afterwards, or continue on to explore other fine sites in the city. These include the late Gothic-Renaissance City Hall, with excellent stained glass windows, mural paintings and an interesting facade featuring statues of the many Dukes of Flanders. Alternatively, you can wander over to the bridge on the River Leie. It features a statue of Saint Nepomucenus, who is the patron saint of the drowned. The bridge is also the site of the Broel Towers. These originated in the medieval period. Speyetoren, the southern tower, is from the12th century and originally comprised a portion of the castle ramparts. Inghelborchtoren, the northern tower, was constructed as a defensive measure against the artillery of the time.
Looking for a Kortrijk hotel Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Kortrijk hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world
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