Archer's guilds
The Flemish archers’ guilds originated in the 14th century as militias to protect the medieval city. The St Sebastian's Handbow Guild and St George's Crossbow Guild still exist, admittedly as a sports club.
The St Sebastian's Guild has been part of the tradition of Bruges for more than 600 years. This handbow guild protected the city in the 14th century. Today, the guild still has its archers' court in a historic building complex. Visit the king's room and the chapel room. Or stroll through the garden and behold the targets and vertical stake.
The St George's Crossbow Guild is 700 years old, making it one of the oldest archery guilds in the country and in Europe. This crossbow guild is located in a beautiful estate in the Saint Anne's neighbourhood. After a fire in 2018, the entire infrastructure was renovated. Today, visitors are welcomed in a uniquely renovated setting with a rich past.
