Hotels near Burg Square and Basilica of the Holy Blood

The Burg is Bruges's civic square - smaller and more intimate than the Markt, but with more architectural variety per square metre than anywhere in Belgium. The 14th-century Stadhuis (Town Hall) with its Gothic facade, the Renaissance Brugse Vrije, the Provost's House, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood all stand within 50 metres.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood holds a relic said to be drops of Christ's blood, brought from Jerusalem after the Second Crusade in 1150. The lower chapel (Romanesque, 12th century) is austere stone; the upper chapel (rebuilt Gothic, 16th century) is gilded and painted. Entry is free; the relic veneration runs daily 2-4pm. The Holy Blood Procession on Ascension Day each May parades the relic through the streets - a UNESCO Intangible Heritage tradition.

Pro Tip: Walk through the Burg under the arch into Blinde Ezelstraat (Blind Donkey Street) towards the Fish Market and Rozenhoedkaai canal viewpoint - the most photographed corner of Bruges, especially at dusk.