Basilica of the Holy Blood

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a finely tuned blend of late-Gothic architecture with a Romanesque interior, unique in all of the West-Flanders.

Tucked away in Bruges’ historic centre, this cosy little chapel hides its eye-catching secrets in the corner of the former fortified administrative building. Built in the 12th century, The Basilica of the Holy Blood holds a treasure of cultural and religious artefacts.
The church is home to a sacred relic, a glass vial that's said to hold a piece of cloth stained with the blood of Christ. It was brought from Jerusalem during the Crusades by the Count of Flanders.

Walking in the chapel leaves visitors mesmerized. Vibrantly coloured facades depicting Biblical scenes, stained glass windows and a vaulted wooden ceiling make up the inner part of the church. Following the 'De Steeghere' staircase will lead you to the upper chapel. Extended during the Renaissance period, this room is adorned with sculpted marble statues and has a more sober outlook compared to its lower chappel counterpart.