Almshouses (Godshuizen) description and photos - Belgium: Bruges (Topic)

Almshouses (Godshuizen) description and photos - Belgium: Bruges. Detailed information about the attraction. Description, photographs and a map showing the nearest significant objects. The title in English is Godshuizen.

Photo and description

Almshouses, or Godshis, in translation means "House of God", which actually means shelters for the elderly and disadvantaged, which arose in medieval times. Their founders were members of craft guilds and pastoral communities.

In Bruges, at present, there are about fifty such houses inhabited by old or poor people. All of them are on state social security and turned into the most picturesque corners of the city. In each such complex, consisting of small houses of irregular shape, painted in warm colors, there is a chapel or prayer house, where earlier, in the Middle Ages, the inhabitants of such shelters were obliged to pray every evening for the founders of their house. Such an architectural ensemble is closed by a high wall and has a single entrance from the street. Looking inside you can understand the features of the Flemish character, emphasizing kind-heartedness, love for home and family.

These houses are intended mainly for elderly citizens, and separately for men, women and couples. Most women are busy making bobbin lace. All of them are free in their choice, do not know the anxiety and horror of a beggar existence.

The entrance to the almshouse is decorated with figures of Jesus, the Virgin Mary or other patron saints. The main distinguishing feature of the spiritual life in Bruges has always been concern for the impoverished and weak townspeople, love for God and neighbor, thanks to which every house in this quiet and cozy town attracts attention.

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Topic: Almshouses (Godshuizen) description and photos - Belgium: Bruges.