Background

Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus: Guardian of Bruges' Waterways

Discover the serene Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus in Bruges, a tribute to the city's waterways and rich cultural heritage.

4.5

The Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus, an 18th-century monument to the patron saint of bridges and waterways, stands along the Dijver canal in Bruges. Crafted by Bruges sculptor Pieter Pepers, the statue embodies the city's rich religious history and enduring connection to its canals. The serene setting offers visitors a tranquil escape amidst Bruges' medieval charm.

A brief summary to Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus

Local tips

  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Dijver canal to fully appreciate the statue's picturesque setting and the surrounding medieval architecture.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting, perfect for capturing stunning photographs of the statue and canal.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at nearby attractions such as the Groeninge Museum or the Church of Our Lady.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Markt square in the Historic Centre, walk south toward the Dijver canal. Turn right onto Dijver street and continue along the canal. The statue will be on your left, offering a picturesque view of the waterway and nearby buildings.

  • Public Transport

    From Bruges train station, take bus number 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16 or 23 to one of the city center stops such as 't Zand, Sint-Salvatorskerk, Markt, O.L.V. Kerk, or Dijver. A single ticket costs €3 and is valid for 60 minutes, allowing changes between bus services. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the statue. Alternatively, free bus tickets are available if you park at Parking Centrum-Station.

  • Parking

    If driving, park at one of the public parking areas like 'Parking Centrum-Station' or 'Parking Katelijne'. Katelijne car park is closest to Dijver. Parking rates at Katelijne are €2.20 per hour, with a maximum of €16.80 per 24 hours. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus.

Unlock the Best of Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus

Erected in the 18th century, the Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus honors Saint John of Nepomuk, the patron saint of bridges, waterways, and against drowning. The statue, created by Bruges sculptor Pieter Pepers (1730-1785), stands as a testament to the city's deep-rooted religious history and its reliance on its intricate network of canals. Saint John of Nepomuk was a national saint of Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic) who was drowned in the Vltava river in 1393. He is often depicted with a halo of five stars, inspired by a legend that stars appeared over his body when it was recovered from the river. The statue in Bruges reflects this iconography and serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and the connection between the city and its waterways. Located along the picturesque Dijver canal, the statue provides a serene and reflective atmosphere. Visitors can admire the statue's intricate details, crafted from high-quality stone, while enjoying the stunning views of the canal and the surrounding medieval architecture. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city center. Benches near the statue invite visitors to pause, soak in the ambiance, and reflect on the rich history of Bruges.

Popular Experiences near Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus

Popular Hotels near Statue of Saint Joannes Nepomucenus

Select Currency