Kapucijnenklooster (Capuchin Monastery)
From 1871 to 2021, it was home to the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin, a religious community of men distinguished by their tireless commitment to the poor and those living on the fringes of society.
The Capuchins not only did charitable work, but also provided religious services, helped to put official documents in order and formed the first volunteer fire department in Bruges from the late 18th century.
The monastery complex is very simple and rudimentary. It included a publishing house, consulting rooms and, for nearly fifty years, a Seraphim College with a boarding school for boys.
Since late 2021, Visit Flanders has held a long lease on the monastery. Until the reopening of St Godelina's Abbey across the street, a viewing window in the entrance gate will show a changing exhibition of materials and furnishings from the abbey. From then on, the church will once again become a meeting place for young and old, a multi-purpose space for visitors, residents and business owners.
