Minnewater

Literally translated from Dutch as "Lake of Love", Minnewater is in fact a canalised lake. Today, it is a popular destination for city tourists who want to discover Bruges from the water side.

From trading centre to recreation area

At the place where the Minnewater now lies, the river Reie used to flow into the city without human intervention. In the course of time, the citizens of Bruges discovered that the river could make life easier inside the city walls through more or less extensive intervention. They channelled the Reie and built locks as early as the 12th century. The resulting lake, now called Minnewater, helped secure the city's water supply. It also served as a harbour basin. The barges that ensured the regular exchange of goods with the city of Ghent were loaded and unloaded here. Incidentally, after canalisation, the lake kept the water in the city's canals at a constant level.

Regardless of its useful background, the Minnewater is a beautiful place that offers unforgettable impressions to visitors to Bruges. It is now spanned by a bridge that you can use to approach the city while enjoying the picturesque view of medieval Bruges or watching Bruges' famous swans.

Not only couples in love will find idyllic tranquility or exciting entertainment in the park directly adjacent to the lake, depending on the time of day and season. Especially in summer, the Minnewater Park is a popular venue for concerts, where it can get loud and rocky.

Charming surroundings complement the romance of the place

Minnewater Park is just one way to gather picturesque impressions and enjoy relaxing moments near the river that has been artificially expanded into a lake. The variety of planted flora delights the hearts of garden lovers at any time of the year. Right next to the bridge that spans the Minnewater today, a tower was built in the 14th century whose name correctly suggests its initial purpose. The Powder Tower was built to store defensive weapons and ammunition. While in earlier times it clearly indicated Bruges' defences, today the Powder Tower completes the romantic view of the city that you can enjoy from the Minnewater bridge.