Bruges, in northwestern Belgium, is a marvel of a city. It has been called the "Venice of the North" due to its system of canals and bridges. Before Antwerp's rise to prominence in the 16th Century, Bruges (along with Ghent) was the most important trading center in Northern Europe. The quality and quantity of the city's products generated considerable wealth and attracted traders from no less than 20 countries and kingdoms.

Here, the Monkey enjoys a sunny May Day in Bruges at a spot by the canal called the Rozenhoedkaai. The towering 80 meter belfry directly behind him is home to a carillion of 47 bells weighing more than 27 tons!

The Monkey poses by another Bruges canal, with the 13th to 15th Century Church of Our Lady in the background. Its spire soars to 122 meters, and its art collection includes a Michelangelo sculpture.

The Monkey rests by the rain washed cobblestones of Bruges' Markt, or main square. In the distance above the market stalls are one of the signature sights of Bruges: a row of old stepped gable houses. At the right you can see some of the Bruges City Hall, which dates from the 14th and 15th Centuries when Bruges was at its economic height.

The Monkey suns himself by another of Bruges' tranquil canals.

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