Basilica of the Holy Blood
Church in Bruges, Belgium, housing the relic of the Holy Blood in its chapel.
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Basilica of the Holy Blood
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The Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges is a 12th-century double chapel renowned for housing a highly significant relic: a phial said to contain the blood of Jesus Christ. The lower chapel, dedicated to Saint Basil, remains nearly unchanged in its austere Romanesque style. In contrast, the upper chapel was rebuilt in the Gothic style during the 16th century and lavishly renovated in the Neo-Gothic style in the 19th century. According to tradition, the relic was brought to Bruges by Thierry of Alsace following the Second Crusade in 1150. Every Friday, the phial is brought out for veneration by the faithful, and once a year, the famous Procession of the Holy Blood takes place through the streets of Bruges, a tradition recognized by UNESCO.
- Location: Belgium
- Top sights: Basilica of the Holy Blood · Sint-Basiliuskapel · City Hall
- Nearby: Damme (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 67 | 59 | 54 | 39 | 58 | 62 | 74 | 80 | 58 | 71 | 77 | 79 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges is an active church and can be visited for free. The lower Romanesque part and the upper Neo-Gothic chapel are both accessible. Veneration of the relic is usually free, donations welcome.
Typical hours
Churches in Bruges usually open in the morning and close late afternoon. Services may restrict access temporarily. Typical hours are 10 am to 5 pm, shorter on Sundays.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed in the basilica, without flash or tripod. The relic chapel should be photographed respectfully. The lower crypt features atmospheric shots by candlelight.
Time needed
A visit to the basilica takes about 30 to 45 minutes. If you participate in the relic veneration, allow a bit more time. Entry is free, making the visit short and worthwhile.
Combine with
The basilica is on Burg Square, right next to Bruges City Hall. Nearby you find the Market Square with the Belfry and many chocolate shops. Combine with a canal boat trip.
Getting there
The basilica is in the historic center of Bruges, easily reachable on foot. From Bruges station it is about a 15-minute walk. Parking is on the outskirts, the old town is car-free.
Insider tip
Visit the basilica early in the morning to see the relic in peace. Free entry often means queues, so come right at opening. Dress appropriately for a place of worship.
Geography
Facts
- The original Romanesque chapel was constructed around the year 1134.
- The relic of the Holy Blood reportedly arrived in Bruges in 1150.
- The church was officially elevated to the status of minor basilica in 1923.
- The Procession of the Holy Blood is held annually on Ascension Day.
- The basilica's museum houses the Great Reliquary of the Holy Blood from 1617.
- The upper chapel was redesigned in the Neo-Gothic style between 1870 and 1877.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Basilica of the Holy Blood (10)
City Hall
Stadhuis, a building complex on Burg square, seat of Bruges city administration.
Bruges Beer Museum🏛 museum
Museum with beer tasting, history and brewing culture in Bruges.
Archeologische site van de Sint-Donaaskathedraal
Archaeological site of the demolished cathedral in Bruges, underground foundations.
Rosary Quay
Quay in Bruges, offering views of the canal and historic houses.
Nepomucenusbrug
Bridge in Bruges, Belgium, named after Saint John of Nepomuk.
Historium🏛 museum
Neogothic corner building 1910-1914, formerly Ministry of Public Works, Bridges and Roads.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the relic shown?
The Holy Blood relic is shown daily at specific times (usually 14:00-16:00) for veneration.
Does it cost to visit the basilica?
Entry to the basilica is free; only the attached museum requires a fee.
Where is the basilica located?
It is located on Burg Square in the historic old town of Bruges.
What is the difference between the lower and upper chapel?
The lower chapel is simple Romanesque, while the upper chapel is ornate Neo-Gothic.
When does the Procession of the Holy Blood take place?
The large procession takes place every year on Ascension Day.
Basilica of the Holy Blood: where is it located?
Basilica of the Holy Blood is located in Belgium.
Basilica of the Holy Blood: what is there to see?
Highlights include Basilica of the Holy Blood, Sint-Basiliuskapel, City Hall.
Basilica of the Holy Blood: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Basilica of the Holy Blood: why is it worth visiting?
The Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges is a 12th-century double chapel renowned for housing a highly significant relic: a phial said to contain the blood of Jesus Christ.
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