Bruges stands out not only for its beauty but also for its museums showcasing the art and history of the city and Belgium.
Table of Contents
Best museums in Bruges
Groeninge Museum
Built on the site of the medieval Eekhout Abbey, this museum displays several centuries of Flemish and Belgian painting.
The museum’s highlights include the collection of early Flemish paintings, such as works by Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David. These reflect the rich artistic heritage of 15th and 16th-century Bruges.
In addition, we can see works by a wide range of Renaissance and Baroque masters, as well as paintings from the 18th and 19th-century neoclassical and realist periods.
All information can be found here!
Saint John’s Hospital (Sint-Jansspitaal)
The former hospital on the riverbank is Bruges’ oldest building, founded in the 12th century and now functioning as a museum.
In the former wards, an exhibition of documents and surgical instruments showcases the hospital’s history. The old pharmacy next to the wards has also been preserved.
All information can be found here!
Memling Museum
Located in the old chapel of Saint John’s Hospital, it is one of Bruges’ smallest but very atmospheric museums.
Six paintings by Hans Memling, a 15th-century painter, are on display. His most beautiful work is the Saint Ursula Shrine, where the artist „narrates” the main events of Ursula’s life.
Gruuthusemuseum
Showcasing Bruges’ centuries-old history in the Gruuthuse ducal palace along the Dijver canal.
The palace was built in the 15th century and was once owned by the wealthy and influential Van der Aa family. You can see the ornate reception rooms, bedrooms, and chapel.
The exhibition includes furniture, bobbin lace, gold and silver objects, weapons, musical instruments, and ceramics. The most famous object in the collection is the painted terracotta bust of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, from 1520. Another outstanding value is the collection of 16th and 17th-century Flemish tapestries.
All information can be found here!
Arentshuis
Located next to the Groeningemuseum, in the former Arents house, it showcases an impressive collection of works by British artist Frank Brangwyn.
The house itself is wonderful: built in the 18th century, it has preserved part of its original interiors, giving visitors insight into the lifestyle of the era.
The Arentshuis displays numerous paintings, drawings, and engravings, as well as a furniture collection and other artifacts related to Brangwyn’s work and era.
All information can be found here!
Historium Bruges
Located next to the Main Square, this museum takes you back to medieval Bruges with modern solutions.
With interactive elements and VR goggles, you can truly feel like you’re in the Middle Ages. From the building’s tower, a panoramic view unfolds.
All information can be found here!
Choco-Story
A small museum that presents the history of chocolate through exhibitions.
The museum showcases the journey of chocolate from ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures to the modern European confectionery industry. We can learn how cocoa was used in religious rituals and as currency, and how chocolate became a popular drink and dessert in Europe.
They also offer chocolate tastings, demonstrate praline making, and of course, you can buy from the many types of chocolates.
All information can be found here!
Frietmuseum
Nowadays, they make museums about everything, so why would french fries be left out!?
According to reports, the exhibition is very interesting and informative; you wouldn’t think there’s so much to learn about potatoes and french fries. At the end, you can eat a good meal at a discounted price in the cafeteria.
All information can be found here!
Lamp Museum (Lumina Domestica)
A special museum boasting the world’s largest collection of lamps. This museum presents the history of home lighting using lamps from different eras and cultures.
Its collection of over 6,000 pieces includes historical lamps from all over the world. You can find early oil lamps, gas lamps, and early examples of electric lighting.
The permanent exhibitions show how lighting technology has evolved over the centuries and what innovations have contributed to modern lighting.
All information can be found here!
Best museums in the world
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