St James' Church
St. James' Church: A Gothic Gem in Bruges
Ezelpoort: Bruges' Medieval Gateway
Step back in time at Bruges' Ezelpoort, a beautifully preserved medieval gate offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's past.
The Ezelpoort, or Donkey's Gate, is one of Bruges' four remaining medieval city gates, dating back to 1297. Surrounded by water, it offers a glimpse into the city's fortified past and is a picturesque landmark for visitors.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Ezelpoort
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Bruges, 8000, BE
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Getting There
Walking
From the Markt (main square), walk northeast on Steenstraat, then turn left onto Ezelstraat. Continue until you reach Ezelpoort, a historic city gate. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Public Transport
Take a train to Bruges Station (Brugge). From the station, take bus line 1 or 6 towards 'Brugge Centrum' and get off at the 'Ezelpoort' stop. The bus stop is a short, 5-minute walk to Ezelpoort. A bus ticket costs around €3. Check the 'De Lijn' website for the latest bus schedules.
Car
From the N9 or N31, follow signs for 'Brugge Centrum'. Once in the center, follow signs to 'Ezelpoort'. Parking is available in nearby public parking lots like 'Parking Centrum' or 'Interparking,' within walking distance. Parking costs vary, typically around €2-€4 per hour.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos in a quieter atmosphere.
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Explore the nearby canals for picturesque views of the gate from different angles.
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Combine your visit with a walking tour to learn more about Bruges' history and architecture.
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Bring a picnic to enjoy in the green spaces around Ezelpoort.
Discover more about Ezelpoort
Ezelpoort, also known as the Donkey's Gate, is a captivating historical landmark in Bruges, Belgium. Constructed in 1297 as part of the city's second ring of ramparts, it stands as a testament to Bruges' rich medieval heritage. The gate was rebuilt in 1369 by Jan Slabbaerd and Mathias Saghen, who also designed the Boeveriepoort and Smedenpoort.Over the centuries, the Ezelpoort underwent several alterations. In the 17th century, the gate's original height was reduced, and the upper parts of its towers were replaced with octagonal peaked roofs, altering its defensive character. A guard house was added in the early 18th century, and the front gate was later demolished. The most recent restoration occurred between 1991 and 1993, earning it the Europa Nostra Award in 1994.Today, the Ezelpoort welcomes pedestrians and cyclists, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city center. Its charming surroundings, complete with serene canals and lush green spaces, provide opportunities for leisurely strolls and picnics. The main building now houses the administrative office of Anima Eterna, a local orchestra.
A brief summary to Ezelpoort
Use Ezelpoort as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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