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Sint-Donaas Ruins: Unearthing Bruges' Lost Cathedral

Discover the hidden ruins of Bruges' most important cathedral, unearthed beneath Burg Square and the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Explore the remains of the Sint-Donaas Cathedral, once Bruges' most important religious building, now an archaeological site beneath the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Discover its history, including its role in a notorious murder, and view salvaged artifacts.

A brief summary to Sint-Donaas ruïnes

  • Burg 11, Bruges, 8000, BE

Local tips

  • Access to the ruins is through the Crowne Plaza Hotel; inquire at the reception desk.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions on Burg Square, such as the City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
  • Allow at least 30-60 minutes to fully explore the ruins and read the informational displays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Sint-Donaas Ruins are located on Burg Square (Burg 11, 8000 Brugge), a central point in Bruges. From the Markt (Market Square), walk east towards the Burg. The Crowne Plaza Hotel is on the north side of the square. Enter the hotel and inquire at reception for access to the ruins.

  • Public Transport

    From Bruges train station, take any of the frequent buses (e.g., lines 1, 3, 4, 11, 13, 14, or 16) to the city center. Get off at the 'Markt' stop and walk east to Burg Square. The Crowne Plaza Hotel is located on the north side of the square. A single bus ticket costs €3 when purchased in advance or €3.50 from the bus driver.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bruges, including at the train station and the Markt. A taxi from the train station to Burg Square will cost approximately €11-€15. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Burg Square.

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Discover more about Sint-Donaas ruïnes

The Sint-Donaas Ruins offer a unique glimpse into Bruges' past, revealing the foundations of the Sint-Donaas Cathedral, which was once the city's most significant religious structure. The original church dates back to the 10th century, with several Gothic-style modifications over time. In 1559, it was elevated to cathedral status. The cathedral's history is intertwined with significant events, including the assassination of Charles the Good, Count of Flanders, in 1127. The cathedral was seized, demolished, and its materials sold off during the French occupation at the end of the 18th century. The ruins remained hidden beneath Burg Square for two centuries until excavations in the 1950s rediscovered them during the construction of a new hotel. Today, visitors can explore the salvaged remains in the cellars of the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The experience is surreal, with ancient walls juxtaposed against modern carpeted floors and lighting. Artifacts recovered during the excavation are on display, providing context to the cathedral's original layout and importance. Although little of the original cathedral remains, the Sint-Donaas Ruins offer a tangible connection to Bruges' rich medieval past.

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