Basilica of the Holy Blood: A Sacred Relic in Bruges

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Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges, a historic chapel housing a revered relic believed to contain the blood of Jesus Christ.

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Basilica of the Holy Blood

The Basilica of the Holy Blood, or Heilig-Bloedbasiliek, is a Roman Catholic basilica in Bruges, Belgium, that houses a venerated relic said to contain the blood of Jesus Christ. The basilica is composed of two chapels: the lower chapel, which has retained its original Romanesque style, and the upper chapel, which showcases Gothic architecture.

A brief summary to Basilica of the Holy Blood

Burg 13, Bruges, Brugge, 8000, BE
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Monday 10 am-5:15 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5:15 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5:15 pm
Thursday 10 am-5:15 pm
Friday 10 am-5:15 pm
Saturday 10 am-5:15 pm
Sunday 10 am-5:15 pm

Local tips

Check the Basilica's website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, as they are subject to change.
The relic of the Holy Blood is displayed to the public every Friday and during special religious events.
Consider visiting during the annual Procession of the Holy Blood on Ascension Day for a unique cultural experience.

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Getting There

Walking

The Basilica is located on Burg Square in the heart of Bruges, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Markt (Market Square), walk east towards Burg Square. The Basilica will be on your left, next to the City Hall.
Public Transport

The Basilica is accessible via public transport. From the Bruges train station, take bus line 1 or 2 and get off at the 't Zand stop. From there, it's a short walk to Burg Square. A single trip costs €3.00 if purchased in advance at a kiosk, or €3.50 if bought from the bus driver.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Bruges. You can find taxi stands at the train station and the Markt. A short taxi ride from the train station to the Basilica will cost approximately €10-€15.

Discover more about Basilica of the Holy Blood

Located in the heart of Bruges on Burg Square, the Basilica of the Holy Blood is a significant religious and historical site. Built between 1134 and 1157, it was originally the chapel of the Count of Flanders before being elevated to a minor basilica in 1923. The basilica is famous for housing a relic of the Holy Blood, which, according to tradition, was collected by Joseph of Arimathea and brought to Bruges by Thierry of Alsace after the Second Crusade in 1150. The basilica consists of two distinct chapels. The lower chapel, dedicated to St. Basil the Great, is a dark Romanesque structure that has remained virtually unchanged since the 12th century. It is one of the best-preserved Romanesque churches in West Flanders and houses a relic of Saint Basil. The upper chapel, initially built in Romanesque style, was transformed into Gothic style at the end of the 15th century and renovated again in the 19th century. This chapel houses the relic of the Holy Blood. The relic itself is displayed to the public every Friday and during special religious events. The Procession of the Holy Blood, held annually on Ascension Day, is a major event where the relic is carried through the streets of Bruges. The basilica attracts both religious pilgrims and tourists interested in its historical and cultural significance. Several valuable works of art are kept in the basilica, including the Great Shrine of the Holy Blood, crafted by silversmith Jan Crabbe in 1614.