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Church of Our Lady, Bruges: A Masterpiece of Gothic Architecture

Discover a world of art and history at Bruges' iconic Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo's Madonna and Child.

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The Church of Our Lady in Bruges is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, boasting the second-highest brick church tower in the world. Home to Michelangelo's Madonna and Child sculpture, it's a must-see for art and history enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Church of Our Lady

  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1:30 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon, for a quieter experience.
  • Entry to the church is free, but a ticket is required to visit the museum section where the Madonna and Child is located.
  • Consider purchasing a Musea Brugge Card for access to this and other museums in Bruges.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Markt (main square), walk southeast on Breidelstraat, then turn right onto Mariastraat. The Church of Our Lady will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Bruges train station, take bus line 1 or 2 and get off at the O.L.V. Kerk stop. The church is directly adjacent to the bus stop. A single ticket purchased in advance costs €3, or €3.50 if purchased from the bus driver.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at the Bruges train station or can be hailed in the city center. A taxi ride from the train station to the Church of Our Lady will cost approximately €11-15, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi stands are also available at Markt.

Unlock the Best of Church of Our Lady

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Discover more about Church of Our Lady

Dominating the Bruges skyline, the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) is a towering symbol of the city's rich history and religious heritage. Construction began in the late 13th century, with the current Gothic masterpiece completed in the 15th century. The church's 115.5-meter spire is the highest brick tower in the Benelux region and the second highest in the world. Inside, visitors can explore a world of artistic treasures, including 13th and 14th-century painted crypts, colorful stained glass windows, and impressive church furniture. The most famous treasure is Michelangelo's white marble sculpture, Madonna and Child, the only work by the artist to leave Italy during his lifetime. The sculpture was purchased by the wealthy Bruges merchant family Mouscron, and some of its members are buried at the foot of the statue. The church also houses the tombs of Mary of Burgundy and her father, Charles the Bold, showcasing the grandeur and opulence of the 15th and 16th centuries. The Passion Triptych by Bernard van Orley and Marcus Gheeraerts is another significant artwork within the church. The church has a rich history, surviving the Iconoclasm in the 16th century and being sold publicly during the French Revolution.

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