Stadhuis (City Hall)

One of the oldest city halls in the Low Countries

Bruges City Hall is one of the oldest city halls in the Low Countries. Building works started in 1376 and took until 1421. The building inspired the architects of the city halls in Brussels, Ghent, Leuven, and Oudenaarde and had a big influence on the Gothic civic architecture in the city.

A huge staircase leads you to the gothic hall on the first floor where murals from the early 20th century present the history of Bruges. Moreover, the vault with its original 14th century polychromed consoles catches the eye.

In the historical room next door, you can discover the history of Bruges and the sea. That topic was not chosen by chance. After all, Bruges owes its prosperity and wealth to its connection to the North Sea. Although the relationship with the sea ran pretty turbulent at times. For centuries, the city had to fight. To protect itself from the water, or just to keep the connection with the sea open. An augmented reality model and various archaeological and art objects bring this history to life.

On the downstairs floor you stand face to face with life-size portraits of former rulers: mayors, kings, emperors, and even Napoleon. You also get an impression of the development of the Burg, the square in front of the city hall, once the civil and religious administrative centre of the city.

Today

Even today, this is the beating political heart of the city. Bruges City Council still holds monthly meetings in the Gothic Hall. This impressive decor also sets the scene for hundreds of lovers to tie the knot and get married.