Poortersloge Bruges
A historic 14th-century building in Bruges, now a venue for contemporary art exhibitions, showcasing medieval trade history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To see the art inside
Poortersloge Bruges
Best Time
To see the art inside
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 14th-century building in Bruges, now a venue for contemporary art exhibitions, showcasing medieval trade history.
"Discover contemporary art in a historic setting, a unique blend of Bruges' past and present."
📅 Check Exhibition Dates
Poortersloge is an exhibition venue. Verify dates and times online before your visit to avoid disappointment.
📍 Prime Location
Easily walkable from Bruges' main attractions. Combine your visit with the Jan van Eyck statue nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bear of Loggia
Northside corner of the building
Spot the iconic medieval sculpture of a bear holding a shield, a unique architectural detail.
Impressive 14th-Century Facade
Jan van Eyck Square
Admire the ornate exterior of this historic building, a testament to Bruges' medieval trade and culture.
Temporary Art Exhibitions
Interior exhibition spaces
Experience diverse contemporary art, from paintings to installations, showcased throughout the year.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Exhibition Schedules
Location and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check Exhibition Dates
Poortersloge is an exhibition venue. Verify dates and times online before your visit to avoid disappointment. 
📍 Prime Location
Easily walkable from Bruges' main attractions. Combine your visit with the Jan van Eyck statue nearby.
🖼️ Art Lover's Gem
Discover contemporary art in a historic setting. Exhibitions change, offering fresh perspectives.
🐻 Find the Bear
Don't miss the unique 'bear of loggia' sculpture on the building's exterior. A quirky photo op!
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Exhibition Dates
Poortersloge is an exhibition venue. Verify dates and times online before your visit to avoid disappointment.
📍 Prime Location
Easily walkable from Bruges' main attractions. Combine your visit with the Jan van Eyck statue nearby.
🖼️ Art Lover's Gem
Discover contemporary art in a historic setting. Exhibitions change, offering fresh perspectives.
🐻 Find the Bear
Don't miss the unique 'bear of loggia' sculpture on the building's exterior. A quirky photo op!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Poortersloge Bruges is lauded for its stunning 14th-century architecture and its role as a venue for engaging contemporary art exhibitions. Visitors appreciate its historical significance as a former center of international trade and enjoy discovering the unique 'bear of loggia' sculpture. However, its appeal is tied to temporary exhibits, meaning access and content vary.
"A beautiful building built in the 14th-century that served as a place of international trade but is now occasionally open for temporary exhibits.
Most notable is on the northside corner of the building, where oen can fid the bear of loggia holding a shield."
James
"Great location for expo. I did see beautiful paintings by Peter Lagast amongst others."
Robert-Jan Engelbrecht
"Poortersloge (The Burghers' Lodge) is a protected monument building at Jan van Eyck Square in Bruges. It is a beautiful building standing directly west of the Jan Van Eyck Statue and boasts a most impressive facade, well worth spending a few minutes to enjoy while spending time in this area of the city.
The building dates back to the end of the 14th-century when this location was at the commercial heart of the the city, an important point of international trade took place here. The exterior features an ornate facade adorned with small statue figures as well as a slender tower. Make sure to find the famous het beertje van de loge (the bear of loggia) while viewing the exterior of Poortersloge as well."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Poortersloge is located at Jan van Eyck Square in Bruges, a highly walkable city. It's easily accessible on foot from most central Bruges locations. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride from Bruges Station.
Yes, it's situated right next to the Jan van Eyck Statue and close to other historical sites in Bruges, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.
Most visitors find walking to be the best way to explore Bruges' charming streets. Consider a canal tour for a different perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Poortersloge is typically for temporary exhibitions. You will need to purchase tickets for the specific exhibition currently on display. Check the official website for details.
Opening hours vary depending on the current exhibition. It's essential to check the Poortersloge's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
No, Poortersloge is not a permanent museum. It opens its doors for various temporary art exhibitions throughout the year.
Yes, the exterior of the building, including its historic facade and the 'bear of loggia' sculpture, can be admired at any time from Jan van Eyck Square.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Poortersloge hosts contemporary art exhibitions, which can include paintings, installations, and other forms of modern art. The focus is on current artistic expressions.
Absolutely! For those interested in contemporary art, Poortersloge offers a unique venue to discover new artists and exhibitions in a historic setting.
The 'bear of loggia' is a distinctive sculpture of a bear holding a shield, located on the northside corner of the Poortersloge building. It's a notable architectural feature.
The time spent will depend on the exhibition. Allow at least 30-60 minutes to appreciate the art, plus extra time for the exterior viewing.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary per exhibition. It's best to check for signage or ask staff upon arrival. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use might be permitted.
The ornate facade and the 'bear of loggia' sculpture are excellent for exterior shots. The Jan van Eyck Square offers good vantage points.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting when there's an exhibition that might appeal to older children or teenagers interested in art. However, for very young children, the focus on temporary art might be less engaging than other Bruges attractions. It's best paired with other family-friendly activities in the city.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+1Make sure to check the exhibition calendar before your visit, as the content changes. This ensures you can plan your trip around specific artists or themes that pique your interest. The building's own historical significance also provides a fascinating backdrop to the art on display.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Bruges' Commercial Past
The architecture itself speaks volumes about its past. The exterior boasts an ornate facade, adorned with intricate details and small statue figures, reflecting the prosperity and artistic sensibilities of the time. It stands as a tangible link to the bustling economic heart of medieval Bruges, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and imagine the vibrant trade that once took place here.
While its primary function has evolved, the Poortersloge continues to be a significant cultural site. Today, it is best known for hosting temporary art exhibitions, showcasing contemporary artists and projects. This dual role—preserving its historical significance while embracing modern art—makes it a unique destination in Bruges.
+1Experiencing Contemporary Art in a Historic Setting
+1Visitors can expect a diverse range of artistic mediums and styles. The exhibitions are curated to engage and inspire, offering a fresh perspective on art within the unique ambiance of the 14th-century building. It's an opportunity to see how modern creativity interacts with historical architecture, creating a compelling visual experience.
+1To make the most of your visit, it's crucial to check the exhibition schedule in advance. As the displays are temporary, knowing what's on and the specific opening hours will ensure you don't miss out on the current artistic offerings. This proactive approach guarantees a fulfilling art experience at Poortersloge.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit