Godshuis de Vos: A Tranquil Almshouse in Bruges
Discover the serenity of Godshuis de Vos, a beautifully preserved 18th-century almshouse in the heart of Bruges. A peaceful historical escape.
Godshuis de Vos, located on Noordstraat in Bruges, is a beautifully preserved almshouse (Godshuis) that provides a tranquil retreat from the city's lively atmosphere. Founded in 1715 by Christiaan De Vos, it originally provided housing for six poor widows. De Vos, who lived adjacent to the almshouse, established the complex on a portion of his garden, intending to ease the administration of the charitable foundation. The almshouse consists of a series of small houses arranged around a central courtyard, with a chapel dominating the space. The architecture reflects a late Baroque style, characterized by the use of brick and sandstone detailing. Originally, there were six residences, but following renovations in 1994-1996, the complex was reconfigured to contain four dwellings. The chapel, dating back to 1713, features a distinctive facade with a curved gable and decorative elements. Inside the chapel, residents were expected to pray for the soul of the founder. In 1963, the high wall that once shielded the almshouse from the street was replaced with a lower wall, offering a better view of the complex. Today, Godshuis de Vos is protected as a monument since 1996 and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage buffer zone. Managed by the city's social services department, the almshouse continues to provide housing for elderly residents of Bruges. Visiting Godshuis de Vos offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the historical and architectural significance of this hidden gem.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more peaceful experience, away from the tourist crowds.
- Take your time to explore the surrounding area; the neighborhood around Godshuis de Vos is filled with picturesque views and charming streets.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and serene gardens, especially in spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
A brief summary to Godshuis de Vos
- Noordstraat 14, Bruges, Brugge, 8000, BE
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
Godshuis de Vos is located on Noordstraat 14, in the heart of Bruges, making it easily accessible by foot from most central locations. From the Markt (main square), head northwest towards Wollestraat. Continue onto Noordstraat; the almshouse will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
If arriving by train at Brugge Station, take bus lines 1, 3, 4, 11, 13, 14, or 16 to the city center. Get off at one of the central stops such as 't Zand or Markt. From there, follow the walking directions to Noordstraat. A single bus fare costs €3 if purchased in advance at a kiosk or €3.50 if bought from the bus driver.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Bruges, including at Brugge Station and the Markt. A taxi from the train station to Godshuis de Vos will cost approximately €8-€10 and take around 5-10 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not common in Bruges.
