Bruges was a critical Belgian trading post for over 300 years, from the 12th to the 15th centuries. An important test bed for entrepreneurship and capitalism, Bruges served has a critical hub for commerce and trade before being overtaken by Antwerp in the 17th century. Bruges served as a thriving testament to the traders, weavers, and artists who settled there. Known for their lace work, it is easy to see why Phil's Belgian friend, Lieve Jerger, is so adept at creating her masterful copper lace creations.Bruges was a critical Belgian trading post for over 300 years, from the 12th to the 15th centuries. An important test bed for entrepreneurship and capitalism, Bruges served has a critical hub for commerce and trade before being overtaken by Antwerp in the 17th century. Bruges served as a thriving testament to the traders, weavers, and artists who settled there. Known for their lace work, it is easy to see why Phil's Belgian friend, Lieve Jerger, is so adept at creating her masterful copper lace creations.