*BRUJAS*: House of the Franconato of Bruges and City Hall

Welcome to the stately home of the Franconate of Bruges, a building with a history spanning several centuries. If the interior reminds you of a courtroom, you’re absolutely right: this is the courtroom of Bruges’ former courthouse. From the late 18th century until 1984, the Bruges Court of Justice was located here. Today, the building houses the archives of the City of Bruges. The main purpose of this tour is to introduce you to the Franconate of Bruges and its administration, which was based here from the 16th century until the end of the 18th century. But what was the Franconate of Bruges? And what were the responsibilities of its administration? We invite you to discover the answers to these and many other questions.

Welcome to Bruges City Hall. You are now standing at the entrance to this beautiful and well-preserved medieval building, which, after centuries, continues to serve its original purpose. For more than 600 years, this place has been the administrative heart of the city. This is where the city council meets and where the mayor and various municipal services work. Upstairs, in the impressive Gothic Hall, the people of Bruges get married and the mayor receives his most distinguished guests. During your visit, we will explore the fabulous Gothic Hall and the historic hall on the first floor.