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Saint John's Hospital: A Journey Through Medieval Care

Explore medieval hospital wards, admire Flemish Primitive art, and discover centuries of healthcare history in Bruges' iconic landmark.

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Step back in time at Saint John's Hospital, one of Europe's oldest surviving hospital buildings in Bruges. Explore its medieval wards, impressive art collection, and learn about the history of healthcare, all within the walls of this unique museum.

A brief summary to Saint John’s Hospital

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the line, especially during peak season.
  • Visit the old pharmacy and herb garden for a glimpse into 17th-century apothecary practices.
  • Take advantage of the free multilingual audio tour available via your smartphone.
  • Don't miss the monumental oak roof truss in the attic, one of the oldest in Europe.
  • Check the Musea Brugge website for temporary exhibitions and events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Saint John's Hospital is located in the heart of Bruges and is easily accessible on foot from the Markt (main square). From the Markt, walk west on Breidelstraat, then turn left onto Mariastraat. The hospital will be on your left, approximately a 5-10 minute walk. This route offers a pleasant stroll through the historic city center.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train at Bruges Station, take bus line 1 or 6 towards 'Brugge Centrum'. Get off at the 'Brugge Markt' stop, which is about a 5-minute walk to Saint John's Hospital. Bus tickets cost €3.00 if purchased in advance at a kiosk or €3.50 if purchased from the bus driver. Alternatively, from the train station, you can take bus lines 2, 3, 4, 11, 13, 14, or 16 to the city center. The 'O.L.V. Kerk' (Church of Our Lady) bus stop is the closest to the hospital.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at the Bruges train station and the Markt. A taxi ride from the train station to Saint John's Hospital will cost approximately €14.90, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi fares in Bruges start at €2.40, with a cost of €2.50 per kilometer. Be aware that night tariffs (from 10 PM to 6 AM) may be higher.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at several parking garages near the city center, including 'Parking Centrum 't Zand' and 'Parking Centrum Station'. From these parking areas, it's a short 10-minute walk to the hospital. Parking costs approximately €1.40 per hour or €7 for 24 hours. Be aware that parking in the city center can be limited.

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Discover more about Saint John’s Hospital

Saint John's Hospital (Sint-Janshospitaal) in Bruges, dating back to the mid-12th century, stands as one of Europe's oldest preserved hospital buildings. For over 800 years, it served as a place of care for pilgrims, travelers, the poor, and the sick. Today, it functions as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of medicine and the daily lives of those who lived and worked within its walls. The hospital's medieval wards, chapel, and impressive attic showcase the architecture and atmosphere of a bygone era. The museum's collection includes medical instruments, archival records, and artwork, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of healthcare. A highlight is the collection of works by Hans Memling, a renowned Flemish Primitive painter. Four of his masterpieces were commissioned specifically for the hospital and have remained there since the late 15th century. These include the Triptych of Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist, the Relic Shrine of Saint Ursula, the Triptych of the Adoration of the Magi, and the Lamentation of Christ. Visitors can also explore the old pharmacy, established in 1643, with its authentic 17th-century interior and herb garden. The museum also incorporates contemporary art, creating a dialogue between the hospital's history and modern perspectives on care and empathy. Saint John's Hospital offers a unique and engaging experience for those interested in history, art, and the evolution of medical care.

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