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Gruuthusemuseum: A Journey Through Bruges' History

Discover 500 years of Bruges' history through art, tapestries, and historical artifacts in a stunning medieval palace.

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The Gruuthusemuseum, located in a stunning medieval palace, offers a captivating journey through 500 years of Bruges' history. Explore its rich collection of tapestries, sculptures, and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the lives of the Gruuthuse family and the evolution of this iconic city.

A brief summary to Gruuthusemuseum

Local tips

  • Purchase the Musea Brugge Card for access to this and other museums in Bruges at a reduced price.
  • Visit the oratory for a unique view into the Church of Our Lady.
  • Explore the museum's collection of lace, a significant part of Bruges' historical identity.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as the museum is closed on Mondays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Gruuthusemuseum is located in the heart of Bruges, making it easily accessible on foot from most major attractions. From the Markt (main square), walk south towards the Burg square and continue onto Dijver street. The museum will be on your left, a short walk along the canal. This scenic walk allows you to experience the charm of Bruges.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train at Bruges Central Station, take bus line 1 or 6 towards the city center. Get off at the 'Oostmeers' stop and walk towards Dijver street. The Gruuthusemuseum will be on your left. A single bus ticket costs approximately €3.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, parking is available at the 'Pandreitje' car park or 'Katelijne' car park. From either car park, it's a short walk to the Gruuthusemuseum. Parking at Katelijne car park costs €2.20 per hour, with a maximum of €16.80 per 24 hours. Keep in mind that the city center is a paid parking zone.

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Discover more about Gruuthusemuseum

Housed in the former palace of the Gruuthuse family, the Gruuthusemuseum presents a fascinating exploration of Bruges' history from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The museum's name derives from the 'gruit' tax, a medieval levy on a herb mixture used in beer brewing, which the Gruuthuse family controlled. Visitors can wander through opulent rooms displaying a diverse collection of historical objects. Highlights include majestic tapestries, colorful stained-glass windows, elegant wooden sculptures, and refined historical lace. The museum also features Burgundian manuscripts, Chinese porcelain, and a recreated 17th- and 18th-century dinner table, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the city's elite. One of the museum's highlights is the authentic oratory, constructed in the 1470s, which connects the palace to the Church of Our Lady. This private chapel allowed the Gruuthuse family to attend services in the church, and its luxurious oak furnishings and gilded ceiling motifs are still admired today. The museum also showcases how Bruges transitioned from its Burgundian heyday through a less explored period in the 17th and 18th centuries, to its rediscovery in the 19th century. The building itself has a rich history, serving as a luxury home, a pawnshop for the poor, and eventually a museum. The city of Bruges acquired the house in 1875 and restored it in a neo-Gothic style, adding numerous medieval elements.

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