Blankenberge is a popular Belgian resort on the North Sea. The town boasts a 350-meter pier and the Sea Life Center, where you can watch sea animals.
The beginnings of Blankenberge go back to the medieval times, when there was a fishing village and a small shopping center. Already in the 17th century, residents of the central part of the country began to come here, and the town began to develop as a seaside resort. Today, the oldest buildings in Blankenberge are the 16th century town hall and the 17th century church with baroque paintings.
The main flourishing of the resort took place in the 19th century. At that time, a neo-Gothic windbreak along Leopold Park and the first iron pier were created. It was destroyed during World War I and a concrete platform was built in its place. Currently, at its end stands the Pavilion with an exhibition devoted to the flora and fauna of the North Sea. Live animals can be admired in the aquariums at the Sea Life Center.
The beach at Blankenberge is over 3 km long and covered with sand. In the season there are plenty of umbrellas, sunbeds and vacationers. On less sunny days you can meet walkers and runners. On the beach there are also small wooden booths that are rented throughout the year, and their owners also spend time in spring and autumn.
