Musea Brugge offers a free mobile audioguide.
How Long Does It Take to Visit, and What Is the Best Time?
A visit takes around 1 hour, if you read and listen to every story behind every painting. Mornings tend to be quieter. Avoid visiting during municipal ceremonies or weddings, when access may be limited.
Bruges City Hall History
Overview of Bruges City Hall as a Seat of Government
Construction began in 1376 and was completed in 1421, making it one of the oldest surviving town halls in the region. For centuries, it has been the center of Bruges’ political life.
Architectural Significance
Built in the Gothic style, the façade features pointed arches, tall windows, decorative pinnacles, and statues of biblical figures and local rulers. This design influenced later town halls in cities like Brussels, Ghent, Leuven, and Oudenaarde.
The Gothic Hall
The highlight of the building is the Gothic Hall, originally divided into two separate rooms but remodeled between 1895–1905 under architects Louis Delacenserie and Jean-Baptiste Bethune. The remodel unified the space into one grand chamber, added a double-vaulted wooden ceiling, and adorned the walls with murals by Albrecht De Vriendt depicting Bruges’ history.
The Historic Chamber
Next to the Gothic Hall is the Historic Chamber, where visitors can explore exhibits about the city’s governance and history.
What Can You Expect to See Inside City Hall?
Visitors enter the Gothic Hall, where soaring wooden vaults, colorful murals, and ornate corbels create an impressive sense of grandeur. The murals portray important moments from Bruges’ past, while the medallions and carvings display biblical scenes and seasonal motifs.
The Historic Chamber offers a quieter space to view historical documents, artifacts, and displays that explain the city’s political history.
The Gothic Hall Murals
Painted by Albrecht De Vriendt at the turn of the 20th century, these murals narrate Bruges’ journey from a medieval trading hub to a modern city.
Neo-Gothic Renovation
The 19th-century restoration not only preserved the hall but also enhanced it with richly symbolic decorative details.
Medieval and Renaissance Function
Since its completion in the early 15th century, City Hall has been the center of Bruges’ municipal government.
Modern Use
Today, it still serves as the venue for city council meetings and official ceremonies, while also operating as a museum under Musea Brugge.
What Should You Know Before Visiting City Hall?
- Photography without flash is permitted.
- Some days may have restricted access due to official functions.
- Digital Guide: Scan the QR code on-site to access text, images, and audio commentary about the Gothic Hall and its artworks.
- Headphones are recommended.
What Time Does City Hall Open?
- Open daily: 09:30 – 17:00
- (Last entry at 16:30)
Where Is City Hall Located?
In Burg Square, at the heart of Bruges’ historic center.
- From Bruges Train Station: 15–20 minute walk or a short bus ride to Burg.
- From Markt Square: 5-minute walk along Breidelstraat.
- Nearby: Basilica of the Holy Blood, Brugse Vrije, and the Old Civil Registry.