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February 21, 2005
An interesting machine
The ancient city of Bruge is full of surprises. Tucked away at the head of a dock is this reconstruction of a medieval crane with a set of simple gears which allows manpower to be translated into mechanical action.
The Medieval Crane reconstruction in Bruge
The city was once on the Flanders coast, but the gradual silting up of the bays and the extension of the coast over the centuries has moved the city several miles inland. The enterprising inhabitants were not to be beaten by this shifting coastline and, rather than abandon the city, they built a canal. Then they extended it, and extended it again and again until finally they built the city of Zeebruge to manage the entrance!
Driving alongside the canal from either end can be entertaining. Cars give way to ships at the bridges.
Posted by The Gray Monk at February 21, 2005 09:46 AM