Kortrijk is an old and beautiful Belgian city in the province of West Flanders. With a population of almost 80,000, it is the capital and largest city of the judicial and administrative district. Historically, Kortrijk has always been an important industrial centre, with its flax and wool industry linking it to France and England in the Middle Ages. The city was also the scene of many historical events, such as the Battle of Courtrai or the Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302. Today, Kortrijk is still an important city with several hospitals, colleges, universities, a pedestrian shopping street and various other attractions that make it a great place to visit.
The Broel Towers are an iconic landmark in Kortrijk, standing tall as a reminder of the city’s history and heritageO.-L.-Vrouwestraat streetThe Lys or Leie is a 202 kilometre long river that rises in Pas-de-Calais, France and flows into the Scheldt at Ghent, BelgiumYouth Sculpture
The city of Kortrijk is a charming, picturesque place, with many of its medieval buildings still standing and in great condition. From the stunningly preserved béguinage and belfry, both recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, to the car-free city centre, there are many fascinating attractions to explore.
One of the house entrances in BegijnhofFounded in 1238 by Johanna van Constantinopel, the Begijnhof in Kortrijk is a well-preserved medieval district consisting of a square and a street beguinage (0.7 ha). Recognised for its cultural and natural importance, it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.Streets of BegijnhofThis vintage lace net doily or mat is perfect for use as a table cover.Sint-Maartenskerkhof street (left) Inside of Saint Martin’s Church (right)The Roelandpaleis, originally known as Den Roeland or Hooghuis, is a classicist town palace located on the Grote Markt in Kortrijk, Belgium. Since the 20th century it has been known as the Patria.The Town Hall of Kortrijk is a late Gothic/Early Renaissance building located on the Grote Markt in the city centre. The façade is decorated with statues of the Counts of Flanders. It is one of the most impressive monuments in the city and an important symbol of Kortrijk’s rich history.Saint Martin’s Church tower (left) The Belfry of Kortrijk is a medieval bell tower (right)River Leie and Broel Towers in the background