This Geocache of the Week combines history, sightseeing, and a dash of whimsy for a series of thrilling medieval mysteries through the town of Bruges.

Cache owner cricri010 earned nearly 17,000 Favorite points for their interesting and informative caches across Belgium. Their new cache series, Closer to Memling, takes geocachers on an adventure through the historic town of Bruges to help renowned 15th-century painter, Hans Memling, find the lost pieces to their masterpiece, the St. Ursula Shrine. The geocaching journey comes to a grand finale at 8 Closer to Memling Bonus (GCAZPB6).

At each stop, geocachers must solve a puzzle to recover one of the missing pieces of Memling’s shrine. Experienced geocachers may recognize some of the puzzle designs, but unexpected twists lie in wait… Once at the final stop, it’s time to help Memling assemble the pieces back together in the correct order! Only then is the shrine complete and the logbook revealed.

Once assembled, geocachers can open the shrine to access the logbook. But that’s not all! Curious visitors can admire artifacts from Memling’s life, sort through a collection of trackables, and have the option to buy a €0.50 wooden coin as a souvenir.

The series is part of a larger Closer to Memling Experience, created by Musea Brugge, showcasing Memling’s legacy in Bruges.

“I wanted to create a geocaching experience that brings history to life, especially for children and families. Hans Memling is one of Bruges’ most iconic painters, and his story offered a great opportunity to combine art, local heritage, and adventure.” — cricri010

Cricri010 shares a bit of wisdom to would-be cache owners and credits those in the geocacher community who inspired them.

“I’d like to encourage others to be bold and creative. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. It can really deepen the experience for players. And don’t underestimate the joy it brings to people—geocaching has the power to connect and inspire in unexpected ways… I’ve been inspired by many amazing cache owners in Belgium and abroad, especially those who integrate craftsmanship, storytelling, or immersive experiences into their hides… The community’s enthusiasm truly fuels my drive to keep innovating.” — cricri010

Well said, cricri010!

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