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Gruuthusemuseum

In the museum you can journey through three crucial periods in the history of Bruges. First of all, there is the city’s Burgundian heyday, followed by the previously underexposed period during the 17th and 18th centuries, before finishing with the ‘rediscovery’ of Bruges in the 19th century neo-Gothic style that is so typical of the city today. These three periods are brought to life by more than 600 exhibits, each of which has its own story to tell. From majestic tapestries to Gothic stained glass, from elegant wooden sculptures to refined historical lace, from the paintings of different periods to a 17th and 18th century dinner table, set with silver cutlery and luxurious Chinese porcelain. The motif running through the display is ‘Plus est en vous’ (There is more in you), which was the motto of Louis of Gruuthuse, the man who first gave the palace its spectacular grandeur in the 15th century.

Stories of a city

Gruuthusemuseum takes you to three crucial periods in the rich history of Bruges.

There is the time of Burgundian prosperity, the less well known 17th and 18th centuries, and the historical ‘reinvention’ of Bruges in the 19th century.

These three periods come to life in over 600 collection items which all tell their own story.

From majestic tapestries to unique Gothic stained glass windows, from elegant wooden sculptures to historic lace, paintings, porcelain, and silver.

The highlight is the authentic late 15th century oratory which connects the palace and the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk (Church of our Lady) with a view of the Gothic chancel of the church.

Louis of Gruuthuse

The first hall displays the portrait of Louis of Gruuthuse, the man who gave this city palace its grandeur in the 15th century. He was a shrewd businessman, a talented diplomat, a patron, and a lover of culture.

The new museum pavilion

The new museum pavilion in the inner square was built during the most recent work on the Gruuthuse Palace in 2019. There you will find the ticket offices and information about Musea Brugge.

The Gruuthusemuseum is one of the laureates of the Onroerenderfgoedprijs 2020.

The city palace of the lords of Gruuthuse is now an absolute highlight after a thorough restoration.

The gables look magnificent. Renovated halls, a new museum concept, and special collection items are just waiting to be rediscovered.