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A church full of artistic treasures, with the ‘Madonna and Child’ of Michelangelo and the tombs of Charles the Bold and Mary of Burgundy
The spire of this church, together with the Belfort (Belfry and Carillon) and Sint-Salvatorskathedraal (St Saviour’s Cathedral), determines the 'skyline' of Bruges. With its 115.5 metres, it is the second highest brick tower in the world. The church interior is glistening again in all its pomp after several restorations.
Within this church you encounter a world full of artistic treasures. The absolute highlight is Michelangelo’s marble 'Madonna and Child'. Originally designed for the Piccolomini altar in Siena Cathedral (Italy), the sculpture was purchased by the Bruges merchant family Moucron, who were based in Italy, and it was shipped to Bruges. The church chancel combines the impressive triptych of the passion by the court painter of Margaret of Austria, Bernard van Orley, and the 15th and 16th century mausoleums of Charles the Bold and his daughter Mary of Burgundy, who died tragically after an accident.
The church is a classic example of brick Gothic, but at the same time is exceptional due to the centuries old connection with the Gruuthuse palace via an oratory in the chancel.
Visitors to the church always have free access. Anyone wishing to visit the museum section with the ‘Madonna and Child’ of Michelangelo and the mausoleums must purchase a ticket at the Museumpavilion first. In this case, reservation is desirable, so you can be sure of your visit.
Photos: © Visit Bruges - Jan Darthet, © Musea Brugge & © Visit Bruges - Jan D'Hondt
