The former Saint-John's Hospital was created in the 13th century. Not only sick people, but also travellers and pilgrims were treated by nuns and brothers. Many only came there to die! The medieval Saint-John's Hospital was once the largest institution in the town of Bruges for the sick, the poor and the ones in need, and so it actually went until the 19th century!
Lots of tales and stories, objects and other art works were left, which are still kept in the present-day museum. Pieces of furniture, paintworks, sculptures and others are shown in the 800 years-old buildings. A chemist's place as well as an herbal garden complete the exhibition. Special attention is paid to the works of painter Hans Memling, the famed Flemish artist of the 15th century.
You can visit the museum, a chemist's store from the 17th century, as well as the impressive rooms were sick people were sheltered, a chapel, an attic and a sleeping room. The medieval rooms and the chapel show a rich collection of medical instruments, documents, but also art works (including six works by Hans Memling who, as it is said, was once treated in Saint-John's Hospital).
Opening times:
museum - Tuesday to Sunday - 9.30 a.m. > 5.00 p.m.
chemist's - Tuesday to Sunday - 9.30 a.m. > 11.45 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. > 5.00 p.m.
Walking
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