Saint John’s Hospital

This is excellent. Must go in Bruges. Beautiful masterpieces on display. The building is very well preserved. Interesting history of the nurses through the ages. Thought the old equipment on display was interesting. This is included in the museum pass that lasts for 72 hours. I recommend the pass as it makes things really easy.

We came to visit the Saint John’s hospital Museum with our Bruges Museum Day Pass. Interesting museum about hospitality. Great to learn this part of Bruges history

Saint John’s Hospital (Sint-Janshospitaal) in Bruges, Belgium is one of the oldest and most significant hospitals in the region. It dates back to the 12th century and was historically a key center for medical care. Today, it functions as both a healthcare institution and a museum, offering visitors insight into its historical significance and medical practices of the past. Key Features of Saint John’s Hospital in Bruges: 1. Historical Significance: Saint John’s Hospital is known for its medieval origins. It was initially founded as a hospital for the poor, sick, and pilgrims. 2. Museum: The hospital complex has been transformed into a museum, showcasing a vast collection of art, medical instruments, and historical artifacts related to healthcare. It houses works of art, including paintings by Hans Memling, a renowned Flemish painter of the 15th century. 3. Art Collection: One of the highlights is the Memling Museum, which is located within Saint John’s Hospital and displays several of Hans Memling’s masterpieces, such as the Saint Ursula Shrine. 4. Architecture: The hospital buildings feature well-preserved medieval architecture, with beautiful courtyards, cloisters, and the chapel still standing. 5. Medical History: The museum also explores the evolution of medicine, showcasing ancient medical tools, surgical instruments, and the practices used in the Middle Ages. Saint John’s Hospital is a great spot for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone interested in the evolution of healthcare. It combines both a glimpse into Bruges' medieval past and an opportunity to explore art and medical history in a unique setting.

The building is quite nice. The idea behind the permanent exhibition is excellent, and the whole experience is interesting. Don't forget to also visit the old Apothecary, which is outside the main building, but also quite interesting.

Inside, outside, every angle you approach this monument is spectacular. The oldest hospital in Europe and one of the oldest buildings in Brugge. The museum inside is very informative and interactive. Really amazing place!

Great place to visit. St. Hospital John was a medieval hospital in Bruges. It was founded in the mid-12th century. Located next to the Church of St. Mary, the facility contains some of the oldest surviving hospital buildings in Europe.

The recently reopened and renovated museum is an interesting example of modern curating. Its small collection is presented with a plethora of interactive ideas, while the texts evoke the stories of the building’s purpose as a Hospital. But the main reason people visit is the collection of Hans Memling paintings. They are presented separately in a quiet glass room that allows for a relaxed viewing.

Amazing museum and stunning beautiful paintings, especially the ones from Hans Memling! If you like oil paintings, it's a must visit in Brugge! The staff their is also very kind and friendly!