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Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges

4.5
#2 of 21 in Historic Sites in Bruges
Architectural Building Religious Site
Basilica of the Holy Blood is best known for containing the relic of the Holy Blood, a cloth alleged to have Christ's blood on it. The relic dates to 1150, when Derrick of Alsace, the Count of Flanders, received the relic as a reward for his heroism during the second crusade. Built in the 12th century, this is the only Romanesque-style church in Bruges. The upper chapel has been renovated several times in a Gothic Revival style. Enter the lower chapel to view the ornate naves, sculptures, and relics dedicated to several saints. Climb the Renaissance-style staircase to the upper chapel, where you'll find the relic of the Holy Blood. Make Basilica of the Holy Blood part of your personalized Bruges itinerary using our Bruges holiday planner.
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Reviews
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
3,657 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • August 17, 2017
    Almost hidden in a corner of the Burg, to find and admire. Inside is lovely and decorated with frescoes. Touching the relic of the blood.
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  • August 16, 2017
    Up is a vial brought back by a Flemish knight from the Crusades in the Holy Land said to contain the blood of Christ but you don't have to touch it.  more »
  • August 16, 2017
    This is the place where Christ' blood is. Beware that the church is closing for lunch hours, so check it before planning your visit.  more »
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Google
  • February 22, 2017
    Tucked away in a corner, what an amazing building inside! Downstairs it's very medieval and upstairs it's very ornate. I'm not religious but felt the process of the Holy Blood being presented was very impressive. Despite what other reviews say they don't make you pay, they ask for donations as they are a church, not a business and do not charge entry. You can still enter and spend time 1 on 1 with the holy blood without spending a thing.
  • June 20, 2017
    The double church, dedicated to Our Lady and Saint Basil in the 12th century and a basilica since 1923, consists of a lower church that has maintained its Romanesque character and a neo-Gothic upper church, in which the relic of the Holy Blood is preserved
  • June 1, 2017
    Recommended. The church is free, but you'll have to pay more to see the artifacts. DSLR cameras are allowed.
  • April 4, 2017
    We came here for a mass on Sunday at 11:00 and there was a quire from England visiting and it was something special. The church itself is beautiful and worth a visit. The church contains the relic of the blood of Christ. The priest gets angry if you try to sneak in a picture of the relic.
  • April 12, 2017
    There are quite a few stories of this place. However that is or may be - it's worth visiting. It's very beautiful inside, soothing and majestic.
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Bruges' tiny city center is the place to be when staying in the medieval town. Don't stray too far from the World Heritage Site when looking for accommodations, and make sure to book in advance, as the historical city center attracts visitors in droves. As a hugely popular tourist destination, Bruges has no shortage of accommodations in varying price ranges. You'll find everything from backpacker hostels to upscale hotels here.
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