Aimant Swan in Bruges Belgium Travel Souvenir

Swans are an iconic and enchanting presence in Bruges, Belgium, gliding gracefully through the city’s medieval canals and adding to its romantic, fairy-tale atmosphere. These elegant birds have become symbolic of Bruges itself, often appearing on postcards, souvenirs, and city emblems. Visitors walking along the canals, especially around Minnewater Lake (the "Lake of Love") and the Begijnhof, are almost certain to see swans drifting serenely on the water, their white feathers reflected against the backdrop of historic stone bridges and centuries-old buildings. There’s even a legend behind their presence: in the late 15th century, after the citizens of Bruges executed Pieter Lanchals—a loyal servant of the unpopular Habsburg ruler Maximilian of Austria—Maximilian supposedly punished the city by decreeing that they must keep swans on their canals for eternity. Whether or not this story is true, the swans of Bruges are now beloved residents, embodying both the city’s rich history and its timeless charm. Their graceful movements amid the tranquil waterways help make Bruges one of Europe’s most picturesque and atmospheric destinations.