Historical Bruges: Jerusalem Chapel and Univ. of Commerce

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $28 per person and lasts 2.5 hours.
• Exclusive Access: Includes entrance to the Jerusalem Chapel with its replica of the Holy Sepulcher and the Adornes domain.
• Unique Stops: Features medieval mills, the 13th-century Stock Exchange building, and Bruges’ oldest bar from 1515.
• Specialized Focus: Explores Bruges’ history of commerce, with visits to guild houses, customs, and trading sites linked to influential families.
• Guided in Spanish: The tour is led by a professional Spanish-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible, with some parts of the chapel partially accessible.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 25 people, ensuring a more personalized and engaging journey.

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Exploring Bruges’ Hidden Historic Corners

This 2.5-hour guided tour offers a detailed look into Bruges’ medieval past, combining historical sites with stories of commerce and social life. Starting at the Grote Markt, the tour ventures through streets that were once bustling with merchants and trade, revealing aspects of Bruges often missed by typical tourist routes.

You will visit the Jerusalem Chapel, inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulcher, with its replica of the tomb—a highlight that brings medieval religious architecture to life. The tour also includes the Museum of the Encaje de Bolillos, which showcases traditional bobbin lace-making, along with medieval mills that still stand from the 13th century, offering a glimpse into the economic engines of old Bruges.

The Historic Heart of Bruges’ Trade and Commerce

A standout feature of this tour is its focus on Bruges’ history as a “University of Commerce,” a phrase coined by the influential Adornes family. The guide leads you through the old customs house, guild houses of Italian, Spanish, and English merchants, and the building where the Stock Exchange began in the 13th century.

You’ll learn about the Brotherhood of Our Lady of the Dry Tree and its links to the Golden Fleece, as well as the Almshouses, which served widowed women. The tour’s stops at medieval streets where bolilleras produced Flemish cloth next to the Lace Museum highlight Bruges’ thriving textile industry.

The Adornes Family and Their Influence

The Adornes family plays a central role in this tour, with visits to their domains that offer insight into Bruges’ aristocratic history. The Adornes domain includes a chapel and a house, which are open to visitors with included entrance fees. The guide explains the prominence of Anselm Adornes and his description of Bruges as a “University of Commerce”—a phrase that captures the city’s importance in medieval trade.

The Jerusalem Chapel and Its Meaning

The Jerusalem Chapel is a key highlight, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem. The chapel features a replica of the Holy Sepulcher tomb, offering a tangible connection to medieval religious devotion. The chapel is partially wheelchair accessible, although some areas require stairs.

The tour emphasizes the spiritual and architectural significance of this site, providing an enriching experience for history and religious architecture enthusiasts alike. Entrance to the chapel and the Adornes domain is included in the $28 price, making it a valuable addition to this engaging exploration.

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Visiting Bruges’ Oldest Bar and Medieval Mills

A visit to Bruges’ oldest bar, dating back to 1515, offers a taste of local history. The bar’s long history makes it a fascinating stop, especially for those interested in the city’s social fabric through the ages.

The medieval mills are another highlight, still standing from the 13th century. These mills represent Bruges’ economic vitality during the Middle Ages and offer beautiful views for photography and reflection.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The meeting point for this tour is Markt 1, directly in front of the Historium museum. The guide, wearing a Curiositas Mundus badge, leads participants through the city’s less touristy streets, ensuring a more intimate experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible in parts, specifically the Jerusalem Chapel, although some sections involve stairs. The group size is limited to 25 people, fostering a comfortable atmosphere for questions and personalized attention.

Cost and Booking Flexibility

This tour is priced at $28 per person, with special rates of $10 for children aged 7-10 and free for infants aged 0-6. The price includes entrance fees and a professional Spanish-speaking guide.

Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the booking process allows for pay later, offering flexibility for travel planning.

Final Thoughts on the Bruges Medieval Tour

This Bruges tour offers a compelling mix of religious, commercial, and social history, perfect for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. The inclusion of important landmarks like the Jerusalem Chapel, medieval mills, and the Stock Exchange building ensures a well-rounded experience rooted in the city’s economic and spiritual past.

The focus on less touristy streets and historically significant sites makes this a great choice for those seeking an authentic glimpse of Bruges. With a knowledgeable guide and small group size, participants enjoy engaging stories and personalized attention.

While the tour’s length and physical accessibility may be considerations, the value of included entrance fees and the chance to explore hidden corners of Bruges make it a genuinely worthwhile experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, with discounted rates for children and infants, making it family-friendly. Some parts of the Jerusalem Chapel are partially accessible for wheelchair users.

What is included in the price?
The entrance to the Jerusalem Chapel and the Adornes domain are included, along with a professional Spanish-speaking guide.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is Markt 1, in front of the Historium museum, and the tour concludes back at this same location.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering a comprehensive glimpse into Bruges’ medieval history.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Partially. The Jerusalem Chapel is partially wheelchair accessible, but some areas may involve stairs.

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