a city of Belgium, in the province of West Flanders, and circle of Bruges. It stands on the sea-shore, with a good harbour, and two basins. The entrance to the harbour is narrow, and only passable at high water; and at low water the vessels within are aground. The mouth of the haven is defended by two forts, and the town is surrounded with walls, and protected by two fortresses or citadels, being thus capable of defence against attacks either from the sea or from the land. It is well built; the streets are broad, and the houses good. It is connected by canals with Bruges and Nieuport, which are