Church of Our Lady

Known for the Madonna of Bruges statue by Michelangelo, climb up the stairs of the Church of Our Lady for great views of Bruges from its tall tower.

Well-known art highlight is the Michel Angelo mother with child from 1504. The only Angelo statue sent out from Italy while he was still alive. The Church of Our Lady (Dutch: Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) is also known for its impressive architecture. With the second tallest brick tower in the world (115m high), Bruges Church of our Lady is one beautiful sight of the city. Look up anywhere in town and you should be able to make out the tower.

Climb to the top of the tower for great views of Bruges. But there are things to see inside the cathedral as well. Entering the church is free, but you’ll have to buy a ticket to the museum to go further in.

Don’t miss all the artworks and interesting tombs for a peak into Bruges’ history. The Church of Our Lady dates back to the 13th century, but wasn’t finished until the 15th century.

• Madonna and Child: many artists have done their take on the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus over the centuries. Michelangelo’s statue is one of the most famous artworks. Plus, it’s the only bit of art by Michelangelo in all of the Low Countries, so you’re in for a unique sight.
• But there’s even more art than just the statue. See paintings by Pieter Poubus and Gerard David, both master painters of Flanders in the Renaissance era in the 1500s.
• Don’t miss the ceremonial tombs of father and daughter pair Duchess Mary of Burgundy and her father Charles the Bold. As Duchess, Mary ruled over the Low Countries in the 15th century.