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Almshouses Rooms Convent: A Tranquil Retreat in Bruges

Discover the tranquility of Bruges' oldest almshouse, a historic haven of peace and compassion in the heart of the city.

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The Almshouses Rooms Convent, or Godshuizen Rooms Convent, is the oldest surviving almshouse in Bruges, dating back to 1330. These historic dwellings provided shelter for the city's poor and elderly, offering a glimpse into Bruges' social and charitable history. Though often closed to the public, the exterior and serene gardens offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city streets.

A brief summary to Almshouses Rooms Convent

Local tips

  • While the interiors may not always be open, take time to admire the architecture and peaceful gardens from the outside.
  • Explore other almshouses in Bruges to appreciate the variety and history of these charitable dwellings.
  • Visit nearby historical sites like the Church of Our Lady and St. John's Hospital to enrich your understanding of Bruges' heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Almshouses Rooms Convent is located on Katelijnestraat 13, easily accessible by foot from Bruges' city center. From the Markt (main square), walk southeast towards Burg Square. Continue onto Oude Burg street, then turn left onto Katelijnestraat. The Almshouses Rooms Convent will be on your left. Walking from the Markt takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines connect Bruges' train station to the city center. Take bus lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16 or 23 from the Brugge Station to one of the city center stops such as 't Zand, Sint-Salvatorskerk, or O.L.V. Kerk. From there, it's a short walk to Katelijnestraat. A single bus ticket costs €3.00 if purchased in advance or €3.50 if purchased from the bus driver. A day pass is available for €5.00 at kiosks or €7.00 on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bruges. A taxi ride from the Bruges train station to Katelijnestraat will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares in Bruges start at €2.40, with an additional charge of €2.50 per kilometer. A 5km ride would cost around 14.9 EUR.

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Discover more about Almshouses Rooms Convent

The Almshouses Rooms Convent, located on Katelijnestraat, offers a serene escape into Bruges' rich past. Founded in 1330, it stands as the city's oldest almshouse, a testament to the enduring spirit of community care. These almshouses, known locally as 'Godshuizen,' provided refuge for the impoverished and elderly, embodying a tradition of charity that shaped Bruges' social fabric. While the interiors are not always accessible to the public, the exterior of the Almshouses Rooms Convent exudes a captivating charm. The architecture reflects the Gothic style, with quaint buildings arranged around a tranquil courtyard garden. The peaceful atmosphere invites contemplation, offering a respite from the lively city center. Exploring the Almshouses Rooms Convent provides a unique insight into the history of social welfare in Bruges. These almshouses, often established by wealthy citizens or craft guilds, reflect a commitment to caring for vulnerable members of society. Today, many almshouses in Bruges continue to provide housing for senior citizens, preserving their original purpose. A visit to the Almshouses Rooms Convent offers a chance to appreciate the beauty of simplicity and the enduring legacy of compassion in Bruges.

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