Damme

Just a few kilometers northeast of Bruges lies Damme, a Flemish town that offers a peaceful contrast to its bustling neighbor. Known for its tranquil canals, appealing streets, and a strong literary heritage, Damme feels like a step back in time. The town's compact center is dotted with cafés, bookshops, and historical landmarks, making it an ideal destination for slow exploration.

Damme's allure lies in its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Once a vital medieval port, its maritime significance waned as the Zwin River silted up. Today, it attracts visitors with its restored buildings, scenic canal walks, and a serene atmosphere. Literature enthusiasts will appreciate Damme's connection to Jacob van Maerlant, a medieval poet and scholar honored with a statue in the town.

The surrounding green polder landscape makes Damme a paradise for cyclists and walkers, with the tree-lined Damme Canal offering a particularly idyllic route. Whether you seek a cultural afternoon, a leisurely countryside stroll, or simply an appealing spot for lunch, Damme provides a memorable escape.

From Golden Inlet to Quiet Town

Damme's story begins in the 12th century, following a powerful storm surge in 1134 that created the Zwin inlet, providing Bruges with a crucial direct connection to the North Sea. A fishing village emerged at the extremity of a transverse dyke, and in 1180, Philip of Alsace, Count of Flanders, recognized its strategic maritime advantages, granting Damme city rights. Bruges subsequently dug a canal to Damme, transforming it into a dynamic transshipment port. At its peak, Damme was one of Europe's major ports, importing over 300 types of goods and holding staple rights for Bordeaux wine and even herring from Sweden.

However, Damme's prosperity was not without its challenges. In 1213, the French king Philippe-Auguste burned the town to the ground, though feverish rebuilding efforts soon followed, including the commencement of Our Lady's Church in 1225. By the late 13th century, the Zwin channel began to silt up, signaling the decline of Damme's port. Despite this, a new Town Hall was constructed between 1464 and 1468, and in 1468, it hosted the marriage of two powerful European figures: Charles the Bold of Burgundy and Margaret of York.

The 16th and 17th centuries saw Damme become a fortified town during the Eighty Years' War, with its medieval defenses replaced by a distinctive seven-star-shaped rampart system, still visible today. The 18th century brought further decline, leading to the partial demolition of its grand church. A significant transformation occurred in 1811 when Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the digging of the Damme Canal, a project that literally halved the town, destroying many buildings including the Cornmarket. After World War II, Damme transitioned into a quiet agricultural village, gaining a reputation for gastronomy. In 1997, it was recognized as the first book village in Flanders, adding another layer to its identity.

Begin your exploration at the Damme Town Hall (Stadhuis), a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 15th century. Its facade features six niche statues representing figures important to the town's history, including Philip of Alsace and Charles the Bold. Inside, you can admire original 15th-century elements like the wooden entry door, a Gothic chimney, and medieval weapons. Do not forget the two 'justice stones' on the right corner, a curious relic of medieval justice.

Next, visit the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Hemelvaartkerk), a 13th-century Scheldt Gothic building with a turbulent past. While much of it was demolished in the 18th century, the splendid Late Gothic choir and 13th-century apostle statues remain. Climb the 206 steps of its distinctive flat tower for sweeping views of Damme and its star-shaped fortifications.

The Damme Canal (Damse Vaart), originally a Napoleonic project, is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, connecting Damme to Bruges and the Dutch town of Sluis. The canal is lined with poplars, some dating back to Napoleonic times. You can also take a boat trip on the nostalgic paddle steamer 'Lamme Goedzak' between Damme and Bruges during warmer months.

Finally, visit the Schellemolen Windmill, a stone mill built in 1867. It stands by the Damse Vaart and is one of the most photographed windmills in the region. Look for the mermaid weathervane, a nod to a local legend.

Damme is a delightful destination year-round, but the best time for warm-weather activities and enjoying the natural surroundings is from late June to early September. During these summer months, the weather is warm and sunny, and you can fully experience outdoor activities like cycling, boating on the canal, and exploring the pleasant terraces in the town center. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) also offer agreeable weather with milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Damme is easily accessible, especially from Bruges. It's just 6 kilometers away, a scenic 25-minute bike ride along the Damse Vaart canal. Bicycle rentals are available in Bruges. Alternatively, a tourist boat, the 'Lamme Goedzak', operates between Bruges and Damme from April to September, offering a relaxing journey. If traveling by car, Damme has free parking options on the edge of the village. For public transport, take a train to Bruges, and then a local bus to Damme. The town center is compact and best explored on foot or by bike. Damme is also known for its culinary offerings, with various restaurants serving local flavors, including a Michelin-starred option.