Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk - More info

History
The Church of Our Lady dominates the Brugian skyline with its 122.3 m high tower, which makes it the second highest brick building in the world. Building work on the current church began in 1225 with a main central nave using Tournai stone, in a typical Scheldt Gothic style. Elements of French (choir and apse) and Brabantine Gothic (the Paradijsportaal) however, bear witness to the church’s lengthy construction. It was the 15th century before a spire crowned the church tower, and even later when the choir and the central nave were finally roofed over.

The Museum
Anyone who would like to pray in the Church of Our Lady or pay a short visit may do so in a restricted area of the church. If you would also like to visit the museum, you can purchase a ticket at the South nave. In the year to come the church will be undergoing restoration works which will mean that some areas may not always be accessible. We apologise for the inconvenience, but we hope to see you again in 2018 in a renovated church.

The Collection
The absolute highlight is Michelangelo’s marble Madonna and Child from 1505. The choir contains the tombs of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold. Above the alter hangs a triptych showing the passion of Christ, by the official court painter of Margaret of Austria, Bernard van Orley.