Furnes

Furnes, known in Dutch as Veurne, is a historic city and municipality in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is located in the northwest of the country in the province of West Flanders, near the border with France. The town lies in the Westhoek on the Yser river and functions as a local administrative and economic center for surrounding rural areas.

Historically, Furnes/Veurne dates back to the Middle Ages. It received its city rights in the 12th century and developed as a regional trading center, fortified by walls and gates. The historic center preserves a compact ensemble of medieval and early modern architecture, centered on a Grote Markt, with guild houses, a church, and a town hall with a belfry. The town has longstanding ties to agriculture, crafts, and textile trades.

In the 20th century, the area around Veurne saw activity during World War I, with occupation and military movements nearby, and the town was affected by the conflict like many places in West Flanders. Today the municipality combines urban and rural landscapes and serves as a transit and service hub for the region.

The economy is diversified, with services, light industry, and cross-border exchange with neighboring France. Furnes is connected by regional rail and road networks that link it to larger Belgian cities and the coast, helping support tourism and local commerce. The culture reflects Flemish heritage, with local associations, markets, and cultural events that highlight the region’s history and landscape.