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“Godshuizen” Almshouses
Many small, whitewashed almshouses can be seen in the townscape of Bruges, mostly clustered around a cosy courtyard. These precursors of public housing were established in the 14th century by wealthy townspeople or guilds. They housed poor elderly people or widows.
These charitable dwellings were built from the 14th century onwards. They were sometimes constructed by the trade guilds, which wanted to offer their ageing members a roof over their heads. Other times they were built by widows or wealthy citizens, who hoped to secure their places in heaven with a display of Christian charity. In order to secure their spots, each set of almshouses had its own chapel, in which the inhabitants were morally obliged to offer prayers of thanks.
Practically all of the almshouses have been carefully restored and modernised and offer cosy living to today’s elderly. Their small, picturesque gardens and white-painted façades offer welcoming peace and quiet. Feel free to enter these premises, but don’t forget to respect their tranquility. More than 46 blocks of almshouses have been preserved, scattered over the city—43 of which are still occupied by elderly people.
