The hidden treasures of St. James’s Church

St. James's Church is one of the seven historic churches within the old city walls of Bruges. The rapid population growth during the 13th and 14th centuries led to the establishment of new parishes. This process began in 1240, when the old parish of St. Saviour's was divided. The existing St. James's Chapel was replaced by a modest church in the early Gothic style. This was rebuilt in the 15th century as the three-nave church we see today.

This tour showcases the church’s many treasures, which were donated by wealthy patrons from the neighborhood, including the Burgundian court, foreign bankers, and the wealthy trade guilds. These were respected members of society, many of whom found their final resting place in St. James’s. These hidden treasures reflect a wide variety of artistic styles spanning more than ten centuries, ranging from the Gothic to the Renaissance and from the Baroque to the Rococo. Five of the church’s works of art are included in the Masterpiece List drawn up by the Flemish Government. This list grants special status and protection to the region’s rarest artistic gems, on the condition that these pieces must remain in Flanders permanently.

Enter a number between 1 and 15 on the keypad and explore the church. The red numbers invite you to admire the five masterpieces included in the Flemish Government’s Masterpiece List.

🕑 30 min.