Basilica of the Holy Blood

Overview

The Basilica of the Holy Blood (Heilig-Bloedbasiliek) houses a venerated relic said to contain a cloth stained with the blood of Jesus Christ, brought from the Holy Land by Thierry d'Alsace, Count of Flanders, in 1150. The building comprises a dark Romanesque lower chapel and a flamboyant Gothic upper chapel.

Highlights

• The relic: Displayed daily for veneration; the rock-crystal vial is mounted in a gold reliquary.
• Lower chapel: One of the best-preserved Romanesque interiors in Belgium, almost unchanged since 1149.
• Procession of the Holy Blood: An annual UNESCO-listed procession through Bruges on Ascension Day.

History

The lower chapel was consecrated in 1149 as the chapel of the Count's residence. The relic arrived in 1150 after the Second Crusade. The upper chapel was rebuilt in Gothic style in the 15th century and heavily restored in the 19th century.

Visitor Tips

• Free entry: The basilica is free; a small fee applies to the treasury museum.
• Relic viewing: Available daily 11:30–12:00 and 14:00–16:00 except during services.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.