A picturesque city in Europe asks tourists not to steal the paving stone from its historical streets. “Leave the beauty intact and for others”

When tourists say they would like to take a piece of their favorite place with them, sometimes I say a little too. The picturesque city of Bruges, from Belgium, has appealed to tourists not to steal paving stones from its medieval streets recognized by UNESCO, reports News.ro citing CNN.

The local politician Franky Demon says that about 50-70 paving stones disappear every month-even more in the peak season-and their replacement and damage repair costs 200 euros (about $ 225) per square meter.

“Although some may consider this harmless or strange gesture, the consequences are serious,” Demon told CNN. “The removal of paving stones is an obvious risk for the safety of the inhabitants and visitors. The missing or weakened stones create a danger of hindrance, and the municipality's employees must frequently intervene to perform repairs.”

Demon said that one of the “authors” of such a gesture even had the patience to replace a missing stone with a planted flower. “A fantasy gesture, but that emphasizes the lack of respect for our common heritage,” he said.

And Bruges struggles with excessive tourism

“We simply ask for respect. To walk through Bruges means to walk through centuries of history,” the local politician said. “These stones are not only pieces of stone, but they are part of the soul of our city. We urge visitors to enjoy Bruges, but to let its beauty intact for others.”

Like Venice, Barcelona and other European historical cities, Bruges are struggling to cope with excessive tourism.

In 2019, the city voted to reduce the number of cruise ships that can approach in the nearby port, Zeebrugge, and ended the tourist promotion campaigns in nearby destinations, such as Paris, to discourage tourists who come for a single day.

Visitors from Bruges who want a holiday souvenir could consider a Belgian chocolate box, CNN mentions.