Brugge’s iconic cobblestones are facing an unexpected threat as thefts of these historic stones rise sharply. On 2025-05-15 20:32:00, local authorities revealed that the city must continuously replace stolen cobblestones scattered throughout its historic centre. This problem is particularly acute in busy tourist spots like the Minnewater, the Vismarkt, and the Markt.
- Brugge kampt met diefstal van kasseien
- 50 tot 70 stenen verdwijnen maandelijks
- Toerisme verhoogt diefstal in drukke periodes
- Stad betaalt 200 euro per m² heraanleg
- Losse stenen veroorzaken veiligheidsrisico’s voor voetgangers
- Schepen Demon roept op tot respect
With an estimated 50 to 70 cobblestones disappearing each month, the city struggles not only with the loss of heritage but also with safety and financial concerns. Why are visitors tempted to take these stones as souvenirs? And how can Brugge protect its centuries-old streets from further damage?
These questions highlight a growing issue that demands attention and respect for the city’s cultural fabric.
Is this simply a souvenir craze or a deeper problem of disrespect for public heritage? The thefts mirror Trends seen in other European cities like Paris and Amsterdam, where public elements vanish amid mass tourism. Key points to consider include:
- Theft peaks during spring and summer tourist seasons, increasing strain on city maintenance crews.
- Each square meter of cobblestone repair costs around €200, adding significant expenses.
- Loose or missing stones create tripping hazards, raising safety concerns for locals and visitors alike.
- Authorities urge tourists to seek alternative souvenirs and respect Brugge’s historic streets.
Protecting Brugge’s cobblestones requires collective responsibility. Will tourists heed the call to respect the city’s heritage? Only through awareness and care can Brugge keep its streets intact for future generations to enjoy.
