The Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges,Belgium, is a renowned Roman Catholic site. It draws pilgrims and visitors to venerate its sacred relic, believed to be the Holy Blood of Christ. According to tradition, Joseph of Arimathea collected the blood, and Thierry of Alsace, Count of Flanders, brought it from the Holy Land to Belgium. Built between 1134 and 1157 as the Count’s chapel, the basilica became a minor basilica in 1923, reflecting its religious importance.
The basilica's unique architecture consists of a lower and upper chapel. The lower chapel, dedicated to St. Basil the Great, remains an untouched Romanesque structure. Its dark, ancient design offers a solemn and spiritual atmosphere. The upper chapel, housing the venerated Passion relic, was rebuilt in Gothic style in the 16th century. Later, in the 19th century, the upper chapel underwent further renovations in the Gothic Revival style.
This combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture symbolizes the basilica's deep historical roots and evolving spiritual significance. The two chapels, with their contrasting styles, create a unique journey through different eras of devotion and design. Visitors experience not just a place of worship, but also a glimpse into centuries of religious tradition. The Basilica of the Holy Blood continues to stand as a testament to faith and history in the heart of Bruges.
Here’s a guide on how to reach the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges by air, rail, and bus:
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Brussels Airport (BRU) is the closest major international airport, located approximately 110 km from Bruges.
Transfer Options:
Train: From Brussels Airport, take a direct train to Bruges. Trains depart from the airport station (below the terminal) regularly, with a travel time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Taxi: Alternatively, taxis are available at the airport, but the journey to Bruges takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Rail:
Nearest Major Train Station: Bruges Central Station (Brugge Station) is the main railway hub in the city, located about 2 km from the Basilica of the Holy Blood. From Brussels: Regular direct trains run from Brussels to Bruges, with a travel time of about 1 hour. You can board the train from Brussels Central, North, or South stations. From Other Cities: There are frequent trains to Bruges from major Belgian cities like Ghent, Antwerp, and Leuven, making rail a convenient option.
From Bruges Station:
Bus: Several city buses (De Lijn) run from Bruges Station to the city center. Lines 1, 4, 6, or 13 will take you close to the Basilica, with a ride lasting about 10 minutes. Taxi or Walk: Taxis are readily available at the station and take around 5 minutes to the basilica. If you prefer walking, it’s about a 20-minute walk through the scenic streets of Bruges.
By Bus:
From Brussels or Ghent: Long-distance buses operated by FlixBus or BlaBlaCar Bus run between Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges. These buses are less frequent than trains but offer a more economical option. Local Bus from Bruges Station: Once you arrive at Bruges Central Station, take a local De Lijn bus (Lines 1, 4, 6, or 13) to reach Burg Square, which is only a short walk from the basilica.
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Eucharistic celebrations
Except on Mondays, there is Holy Mass every day at 11:00 a.m.
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