The Tolhuis

The Tolhuis, the former toll house of Bruges

On Jan van Eyck Square, the Tolhuis, which translates as toll house, often goes unnoticed despite its richly decorated façade. It is one of the witnesses of the commercial past of Bruges. The Bruges audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this historic building, linked to the merchant golden age of the city.

A customs house dating from 1478

The Oude Tolhuis, the former Tonlieu, dates from 1478. It was a kind of customs house where the toll on goods was perceived. Located at number 2 of Van Eyck Square, built in massive stone, it is recognisable by its flight of steps and its wrought façade. In the Middle Ages, this lively square was the merchant heart of Burgundian Bruges, nicknamed its Manhattan.

What to see

You admire the richly decorated façade and the flight of steps of the Tolhuis, witnesses of the commercial activity of Bruges at the end of the Middle Ages. The building, on Jan van Eyck Square, dialogues with the statue of the famous painter. It is a stop for lovers of history, recalling the merchant golden age of the Flemish city.

Practical information

The Tolhuis lies at number 2 of Jan van Eyck Square, in the heart of the old town of Bruges, reachable on foot. Its façade can be freely admired from the square; access inside depends on its current uses. On the level, it is discovered during a walk in the historic district.

What was the Tolhuis of Bruges?

It was a former customs house, dating from 1478, where the toll on goods was perceived, on Jan van Eyck Square.

Where is the Tolhuis?

At number 2 of Jan van Eyck Square, in the heart of the old town of Bruges, near the statue of Jan van Eyck.