We visited several of Brugge's many cathedrals, and each one has its own appeal. Church of Our Lady, built in the 13th Century, is truly spectacular. Its enormous size is overwhelming (these photos show a small fraction of the building). Even more extraordinary is the stunning art covering every wall and corner. The souvenir book I bought says, "The church is a work of art." Exactly.

Brugge was an important, wealthy medieval city, and this status is on display. Aristocratic families of past centuries donated generous sums of money and/or serious artwork to secure their own chapels or other places of honor within the cathedrals. We were very impressed with this Cathedral. You practically could feel the history seeping through the walls.

And I was pleasantly surprised that I was allowed to take photos inside (no flash, to be courteous). I paid a fee equal to about $5 to photograph in one special room, but otherwise, I was free to wander and photograph wherever I wanted. It was nice not to have a security guard scrutinizing my every move.