The legend of the lake
Behind the name lies a local legend. During the Roman era, a young woman named Minna hid in the woods to escape an arranged marriage. When her lover returned from war, he found her in a tragic state, and she passed away in his arms. He built a dam to redirect a stream and bury her. When he reopened the dam, the water covered her grave to form a lake. This body of water was christened Minna Water, known today as Minnewater, or the Lake of Love.
More pragmatic observers will simply tell you that in Old Dutch, Minne means both love and collective. Minnewater likely translates to collective water, implying a reservoir accessible to everyone. The lake was created by canalizing the rivière Reie (Reie river) in the 12th century, along with locks installed to supply water to the city of Bruges. It eventually developed into a harbor basin for freight traffic between Bruges and Ghent.
A romantic stroll
Couples enjoy walking around the lake, which is surrounded by a scenic park, Minnewaterpark. Several activities are available on-site:
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Boat tours on the canals
- Bike rides along the banks
- Outdoor concerts
A bridge was built over the lake to provide access to the city and offer a view of medieval Bruges. The park adjacent to the lake features a variety of trees and flora. Next to this bridge stands a tower built in the 14th century: la tour à poudre (the Powder Tower). Its original purpose was to store the city's defensive weapons and munitions. Today, the Powder Tower adds a romantic touch to the entire site.
The must-see park in Bruges, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Minnewater offers a magnificent setting for a walk around its banks and a drink on a terrace. It is very well maintained, calm, and a nice change of scenery. I took some beautiful photos with the lovely neo-Gothic building reflecting in the water and the swans. I recommend visiting the Beguinage first, which is located right next door, and heading to the park at the end of the day to get the best light.