The Adornes Legacy: A new permanent exhibition in the historic almshouses of the Adornes Estate

The new exhibition marks an important milestone in the development of the Adornes Estate. Over the past year, the six historic almshouses have undergone extensive restoration and refurbishment. From 3 October onwards, they will once again house the estate's museum, now featuring an entirely new permanent exhibition.

Visitors will discover six centuries of family history within the historic almshouses. Exceptional works of art and interactive installations bring the story to life, revealing connections between the different worlds in which the Adornes family lived and travelled. Each room explores a different theme, immersing visitors in the values that have shaped the Adornes family and its descendants: family ties, entrepreneurship, faith, artistic appreciation and curiosity about the wider world.

At the heart of the exhibition stands Anselm Adornes (1424–1483), a remarkable 15th-century citizen of Bruges who led an international life as a merchant, diplomat, knight and pilgrim. The new exhibition explores his fascinating story in greater depth than ever before. His commercial activities, diplomatic missions and international connections illustrate the prominent position Bruges occupied in European trade during the 15th century.

"At the Adornes Estate, the Story of Flanders comes to life. The recently restored Jerusalem Chapel and the new museum in the historic almshouses offer a unique glimpse into the splendour of 15th-century Bruges. This is authentic heritage that we must cherish and pass on to future generations. That is why Flanders has invested more than €650,000 in this exceptional estate over the past few years. Visitors from Belgium and abroad can now discover the story of the Adornes family, of Bruges and of Flanders."
Ben Weyts Flemish Minister for Immovable Heritage
 

Private treasures unveiled for the first time

One of the most significant developments is the opening up of the rich Adornes family collection to the public. Thanks to the extensive restoration, numerous works of art, historical documents and exceptional objects can now be displayed under optimal conditions. Several of these treasures are being exhibited for the very first time.

Each object tells a small part of a much larger story. Coins from various regions Anselm travelled through evoke the international trading world in which he operated. Safe-conducts issued by Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, and Casimir IV, King of Poland, bear witness to his diplomatic connections and opened doors for him among political and religious leaders.

In his will, Anselm recorded what mattered most to him and entrusted future generations with the responsibility of caring for the estate. One of the exhibition rooms is dedicated to liturgical objects acquired and personalised by his descendants specifically for the Jerusalem Chapel. These exceptional pieces not only testify to the family's centuries-long connection with the chapel but also reflect the artistic tastes and craftsmanship of their time. The presentation also has an educational dimension. As many of these objects are less familiar to modern audiences, visitors are given a brief explanation of their purpose and how they were used in religious ceremonies.

Contemporary art also has its place in the exhibition. A monumental tapestry, created in collaboration with artist Isabelle Dubois, offers a contemporary interpretation of the family's centuries-old family tree, creating a bridge between past and present.

"It is important to me that this exhibition feels like an intimate story shared among friends. A story about Anselm, about the many different aspects of his life and his world, but also about the material and spiritual legacy he left behind. A legacy that, so many centuries later, continues to inspire us and, quite frankly, never ceases to amaze us. What an extraordinary man!"
Countess Véronique de Limburg Stirum
 

The Adornes Legacy

Together, these objects provide tangible evidence of six centuries of family history. They reflect the interests, spiritual values and sources of inspiration of successive generations, revealing how certain traditions have been passed down within the family.
The renewed museum therefore provides the ideal starting point for exploring this exceptional heritage and offers visitors a deeper understanding of the Jerusalem Chapel. It is not simply a collection of works of art, but also an intimate family history and a story of values passed down through generations.

The new permanent exhibition thus reflects the mission of the Adornes Estate:
Sharing to bring heritage to life – bringing heritage to life to preserve it.