The relic of the Holy Blood
For hundreds of years, Bruges has possessed a relic of the Holy Blood of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, Diederik of Alsace, Count of Flanders, brought it back from Jerusalem after the second crusade (1150). Today, the relic is still at home in the Basilica of the Holy Blood, in the historic centre of Bruges. There, it is worshipped daily. In the chapel of the basilica there is also a museum, a treasury filled with numerous artworks, artefacts and masterpieces linked to it.
Every Ascension Day, the relic is brought out to be shown. That is when the Procession of the Holy Blood passes through Bruges city centre. A huge and colourful procession of more than 1,700 participants then depicts a succession of Biblical scenes. The suffering of Christ is the central theme, with the relic of the Holy Blood playing the leading role. Recognised by UNESCO as intangible world cultural heritage, this historic parade attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.
Practical information
- 2BE - Perez de Malvenda House: Wollestraat 53, 8000 Bruges.
More info about opening hours, accessibility and other practical information can be found at 2BE. - Basilica of the Holy Blood: Burg 13, 8000 Bruges
- Holy Blood Procession, every year on Our Lord’s Ascension Day
More about opening hours, accessibility and other practical information can be found at Visit Bruges.