De Zeven Torentjes

De Zeven Torentjes is a historic farmstead in Assebroek, a district of Bruges, that today operates as a children's educational farm while carrying a history stretching back to the 14th century. Located at Canadaring 41, in a quiet, green part of the city away from the tourist-packed old center, it offers families a chance to combine a look at rural life with a touch of medieval history.

Where does the name come from?

The name "Zeven Torentjes" ("seven little towers") refers to a dovecote crowned with small side towers. Interestingly, there are actually eight of these towers, not seven — but no single vantage point allows all of them to be seen at once, which is why tradition settled on the number seven. The dovecote itself dates from the 17th century and remains one of the most recognizable features of the whole property.

How did the estate's history unfold?

The land where the farm now stands was originally known as Ter Leyen, a name derived from the family that held it for several generations. A turning point came in 1372, when the estate was acquired by Boudewijn de Vos, an alderman of Bruges at the time. The change of ownership brought a change of name too — from then on the property was known as 's Heer Boudewijnsburg, a direct reference to its new lord. It was only later, as the site's agricultural role developed and the distinctive dovecote was built, that the estate came to be associated with the name it carries today.

What happens here today?

In 1978, the old farmstead opened as a children's farm — the first of its kind in Flanders. Since then, De Zeven Torentjes has served as a living lesson in rural life, home to animals ranging from chickens to cows. Children can observe the animals up close, and the farm's program includes a range of educational and recreational activities aimed at young visitors.

Why is it worth a visit?

The combination of medieval-rooted architecture with the function of a modern children's farm makes De Zeven Torentjes an unusual stop compared to Bruges' typical sightseeing highlights. It's a good option for families looking to complement a walk along the canals and the old market square with something more intimate and hands-on — time spent among farm animals set against a backdrop of historic buildings.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is De Zeven Torentjes located? In Assebroek, a district of Bruges, at Canadaring 41.

Where does the name come from? From a dovecote with side towers — although there are actually eight, tradition refers to seven, since they can never all be seen from one spot at the same time.

How old is the farmstead? The site's history goes back to the 14th century, while the dovecote itself dates from the 17th century.

Since when has it operated as a children's farm? Since 1978, when it became the first children's educational farm in Flanders.

What animals can visitors see there? Among others, chickens and cows, alongside a program of activities for children centered on rural life.