The Old St. John’s Hospital

The former Saint John's Hospital, one of the oldest in Europe

Among the historic landscape of Bruges, the former Saint John's Hospital, built in red brick, occupies a prominent place. Founded in the twelfth century, it is among the oldest preserved hospital buildings in Europe. The Bruges audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this history-laden place, become a museum and showcase of masterpieces.

A hospital founded around 1150

Founded around 1150, Saint John's Hospital, the Sint-Janshospitaal, welcomed the sick and the pilgrims for centuries. It is one of the oldest preserved hospital buildings in Europe. Now transformed into a museum, it houses masterpieces of Flemish art, notably works by the painter Memling, as well as an old pharmacy, witnesses of the long hospital vocation of the place.

What to see

You admire the red brick architecture, the old wards and a collection of Flemish art, including masterpieces by Memling. The old pharmacy completes the visit and immerses the visitor in the history of medicine. It is a major stop of Bruges, at the crossroads of history, art and hospital heritage.

Practical information

The former Saint John's Hospital lies in the heart of the old town of Bruges, facing Notre-Dame church, reachable on foot. Now a museum, it can be visited; it is generally closed on Mondays, with hours and prices that vary with the season. It is best to check the arrangements before coming.

When was Saint John's Hospital of Bruges founded?

Around 1150; it is one of the oldest preserved hospital buildings in Europe, now transformed into a museum.

What is there to see at the former Saint John's Hospital?

The old wards, a collection of Flemish art including masterpieces by Memling, and an old pharmacy, in the heart of Bruges.