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Church · Bruges, Flandres Ocidental
Heilig-Bloedbasiliek
Two-chapel basilica on the Burg: below, the Romanesque chapel of São Basílio from the 12th century; above, the neo-Gothic chapel that houses the relic of the Holy Blood.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Heilig-Bloedbasiliek
Heilig-Bloedbasiliek was built beginning in 1134 by decision of Count Thierry of Alsace as a double chapel. The lower part, dedicated to São Basílio, is Romanesque, dark and largely unchanged since the 12th century.
A staircase leads to the upper chapel, rebuilt in Gothic style and redecorated in the 19th century in neo-Gothic style, with painted walls and stained glass. It is there that the relic believed to contain drops of Christ's blood is kept.
Tradition holds that Thierry brought the relic from Jerusalem in 1150, after the Second Crusade. Research shows it only appears in Brugge from the 1250s and may have come from Constantinople. The relic is shown to the faithful on Fridays and every day during the two weeks before Ascension.
On Ascension Day the Procession of the Holy Blood takes place, one of the city's most traditional religious festivals. The church was granted the title of minor basilica in 1923.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Between 20 and 40 minutes for both chapels.
Best time
In the morning on weekdays. In the week of Ascension demand increases because of the procession.
How to get there
It's tucked in a corner of the Burg, a few minutes' walk from the Markt.
Tip
Start with the lower chapel, with its discreet entrance, then go up to the upper one. It is an active church: keep your voice down and respect moments of prayer.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Heilig-Bloedbasiliek
What is the relic of the Holy Blood?
A vial that, according to tradition, holds drops of Christ’s blood. It is kept in the upper chapel and is shown to the faithful on Fridays.
When is the Procession of the Holy Blood?
On Ascension Day, a movable feast that usually falls in May or early June. Confirm the date for the year of your trip.