On the left side of the Provincial Court is the Historium Brugge – a unique museum complex that offers visitors an immersive experience in the medieval city. Instead of traditional exhibits, modern technologies are used here to literally transport guests to the streets of 14th-century Bruges.
The story told by Historium is centered around the golden age of Bruges, when the city was a thriving trade center and a cultural hub of Europe. Visitors begin their journey with an interactive audiovisual show that recreates the lively streets, bustling markets, and majestic buildings of that time.
The central storyline of the museum follows the story of a young apprentice named Jacob, who falls in love with Anna, a woman from the workshop of the famous artist Jan van Eyck. Through her perspective, guests not only see the daily life of the citizens but also the key events of the era.
After the main show, visitors can explore various thematic areas, such as the port of Bruges, which showcases trade routes and the city's role in international commerce. There’s an opportunity to smell the scents of the medieval city, hear the sounds of the harbors and workshops, and even peek into the interiors of citizens’ homes.
Another unique feature is the virtual reality experience, where you can fly over 14th-century Bruges and see what the now-famous landmarks looked like when they were first built.
By the way, few people know that one of the museum’s exhibits is an accurate reconstruction of Jan van Eyck’s famous workshop. It was recreated based on historical data to show how artists worked during Bruges’ golden age.
So, if you still have energy after our walk, I highly recommend stopping by! The ticket price is around 25 euros.
