Learn about Belgian lace in Bruges

This July, several museums across the city of Bruges will be holding exhibitions on the history of lace-making in Belgium.

Bruges has been known for its lace-making since the fifteenth-century and this exhibition will show both traditional and historical lace samples as well as the contemporary designs currently produced in the city.

Modern lace-making in Bruges is centred to the north of the city centre in the Saint Anna district.

At the Lace Centre, the Jerusalem Church and the Museum of the Saint Sebastian guild, visitors can watch the modern hand lace-makers at work.

In the fifteenth century, Charles the fifth decreed that lace making was to be taught in Belgium's convents and schools.

Lace was invented as an alternative to embroidery as it could be easily detached from one outfit and sewn onto another.

Belgium is easily accessible from the UK by ferry from the south coast.