The textile trade proved to be very profitable and by the 13th-century, Bruges became the epicenter of Europe’s textile trade. The large quantities of various fabrics meant that Bruges developed a rich fashion industry, which paved the way for the development of its unique lace industry.
Bruges Lace
The great fondness of the Flemish residents of Bruges for impressive, quality clothing, led to the development of over 1,500 kinds of lace, woven from silver, gold and silk. Some claim that the Flanders’ unique weaving method, using small looms, was not developed in the region, and in fact originated in ancient Rome. Since those times, Belgium’s provinces developed many techniques for weaving lace, earning Belgium the nickname “The Home of Lace”.
These days, there are two main lace weaving techniques that are practiced in Belgium – the Bobbin Method, also known as the “Brussels Method” (since it is mainly sold in Brussels), and the Bruges Method that uses a loom. The people of Bruges are experts in producing lace so delicate that it is not meant for mass production due to the long and arduous process of weaving it.
Traditional Lace Weaving
All throughout Bruges you can find little shops selling intricate lace items. The shops are usually run by 50-90 year old women, who continue to weave lace by the traditional bobbin method. These artisans preserve the centuries-old tradition and produce quality lace item of various fabrics, colors and patterns. Belgium’s entire lace weaving industry is comprised of about 1,000 weavers that produce everything manually, without any motorized machines or other technological aids. The country doesn’t even have a single lace factory because it honors the ancient tradition of weaving and wishes to keep it alive.
How is Lace Woven?
Quite often, the basis for lace weaving is a piece of paper with a printed version of the pattern the weaver wishes to create. In this weaving method, the weaver uses 22 needles (called “Bobbins”), two of which are called “Conductors”. The more complicated the pattern, the more bobbins will be needed. Some pieces are so intricate that they require the use of over 200 bobbins.
Listen to a Magical Rendition of "Bésame Mucho" by Il Divo
Prepare to be entranced by Il Divo's rendition of one of the most enchanting love songs ever written - Bésame Mucho.
A Fascinating History of the New Year’s Eve
Did you know that New Year's hasn’t always been celebrated on January 1?
Why Are Persian Rugs SO Wildly Expensive?
Persian rugs are a symbol of wealth, and just one of these rugs can cost you thousands of dollars! But why are these carpets considered so outstanding?
The Chinese Butterfly Dance is Pure Magic!
Prepare to be enthralled by the passion, precision, and profound emotion conveyed in each step and gesture of this graceful dance.
How Belgium Functioned For Two Years Without a Government
Forming a government in Belgium is so difficult, the country has been operating without one for nearly 2 years! But how is that possible?
Exploring the Fascinating History of Popcorn!
exploring the history and evolution of this irresistible snack - popcorn!
The World's Most Incredible Toy Train Journeys
Experience the joy of these iconic toy train rides.
Watch Your Step: The World's Most Treacherous Staircases
These dangerous staircases will make your stomach drop.
15 Common Geography Facts That Are Actually Wrong!
Here are 15 common errors about the world that often leave geography teachers in tears...
10 Practices of Happiness from Around the World
Learn the secrets of happiness from these countries.
Visit 9 of the Most Unusual Towns in the World
A village of Dwarves? A city covered in trash? a whole town underground? These strange places will amaze you!
You Better Move Your Shop, the Train is Coming.
This is pretty unbelievable, yet has become routine to these folks..
Indonesia is an Island Paradise With Many Hidden Charms
Explore the culture and natural beauty of Indonesia with this immersive travel guide.
Set Your Eyes on Burano, an Island Bursting with Color
Every corner of Italy has some hidden beauty. Venetian Lagoon island Burano is a gem of an island bursting with colorful houses and tranquil scenery.
15 Fantastic Attractions in Annecy, France
In this article, we'll share 15 must-visit attractions in Annecy, France that you won't want to miss.
Winter Hikers, Gather Round for the Best Tip of the Season
Here's how advanced snow hikers layer clothing in the winter.
WATCH: Visit the Stunning Old Chinese Town of Lijiang
The beautiful Old Town of Lijiang in China's Yunnan province is a truly spectacular place that allows you to step into the past. View it in full high definition
The Beauty of Cape Town Is Highly Apparent In This Video
Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the world's most beautiful cities, and this video captures it in the most incredible way. Take a look at Cape Town's beauty.
Arabian Nights: The Magic of Saudi Arabia
Come with us to fly above and within the magic of Saudi Arabia.
Château d'If: One The Most Infamous Prisons In History
The famous Château d'If began as a formidable fortress, built as a defensive post in 1524 on the small island of If...
10 Beautiful Places in Austria You Must Visit!
We invite you to join a special journey in the country, looking at 10 different sites that are simply a must.
11 Scenic American Lakes Absolutely Everyone Should See
Everyone ought to know about these magnificent American lakes that offer so much fun and countless beautiful views, we want to visit them all!
History’s Oldest Buildings That Have Stood for Centuries
Here's a look at some of the oldest surviving man-made structures on our planet that have a fascinating past.
10 Terrific Attractions in the City of Gdańsk, Poland
I. Discovering what Gdansk has to offer will undoubtedly convince you not to overlook it when planning your trip to Poland or Europe.
These Quotes Will Give You a New Perspective on Life
Some wonderful words about travel that can teach us all about life's great journey.
Shocking Facts About New York’s Flatiron Building
New York City's Flatiron building is one of the world’s most iconic structures. However, it faces an uncertain future.
12 Stunning Spots That’ll Change the Way You See Poland
12 beautiful and eye popping places in Poland that anyone and everyone should visit, from picturesque little towns with huge and ancient castles to sky-breaking mountains with snowy peaks - there is so much beauty to enjoy.
8 Glorious Places on Earth That Are Largely Untouched
Here is a look at some of the most amazing untouched destinations on Earth that are inhabited by very few people.
I've Never Seen Gardens as Beautiful as the Japanese Ones
These Japanese gardens will leave you just wishing for a calm walk in such a beautiful place.
Food Photographer of the Year: 16 Mouth-Watering Pics
Check out the yummiest pictures from the Food Photographer of the Year contest.
Cambodia Is an Asian Stunner That's Begging to Be Visited
Cambodia is a lesser-visited country in southeast Asia. It's hard to see why, because it's got a bit of everything. Here are 10 top destinations in Cambodia.
Take a Virtual Walking Tour Through the Streets of Venice
Venice is a truly beautiful city. Walk through its streets in this breathtaking video.
Introducing the 10 Biggest Shopping Malls in the World
So where are the biggest and most expensive malls in the world? Right here in this article.
What's the Dirtiest Place on the Plane?
If you were asked what the dirtiest place on the plane was, what would you answer? The next study is going to surprise you and change your mind about dirty places.
10 Must-See Amazing and Unfamiliar Sites across France
France is filled with familiar and loved sites such as the Eifel Tower, but there are quite a few that are just as spectacular just not as know, here are 10 of them.
What Dancing Looks Like Around the World
Dance is a universal sign of joy... but it looks quite different in every country! Check out these 20 fascinating dance styles from around the globe.
8 Secret Rooms in the World’s Most Famous Landmarks
The world's famous landmarks hold some secrets, right there under the noses of the many visitors. Learn about 8 hidden rooms tucked in the most visited places.
12 Towns in Germany That Bring Old Magic to Life
Germany has a reputation for being a cold country, which may be true about its big cities, but not to these 12 small old towns surrounding them ...
Have You Ever Seen Bulgaria's Vast Nature?
Come fly with us over the heartbreaking vistas of Bulgaria.
Thailand Never Looked More Enchanting than In This Video...
Never have I seen a video shot with more love for its subject matter. Thailand is indeed one of the most stunning places on earth.
This Exotic Coast Must Be Seen to Appreciate Its Beauty
This place puts other tropical paradises to shame.
This Man Ran a Marathon Every Single Day of the Year!
Meet Gary McKee, the man who ran 365 marathons in a year!
Colorful Travel Photos from Around the World - 13 Pics
Can travel photos be any more colorful?
These 24 Places Should Definitely Be on Your Bucket List
Our world is filled with beautiful places that you should definitely visit. The 24 places in this article should definitely be added to your bucket list!
10 Majestic, Ornate Temples in Thailand Worth Visiting
If you're curious to know more, we're talking about the top ten most beautiful and impressive temples hidden in Thailand!
Go on an Interactive Tour of Windsor Castle!
This video is no regular video, but an interactive tour of one of the most famous castles in the world - The Windsor Castle
Underwhelming Tourist Attractions
A selection of 12 such disappointing sights you may want to avoid on your travels.