The massive Gothic building on the canal's edge is the Saint John’s Hospital (Sint-Janshospitaal), one of the oldest surviving medical institutions in Europe, with a history dating back to the 12th century. It was originally founded as a place to receive the sick, pilgrims, and travelers in need of care. At that time, hospitals were often attached to monasteries, and it was the monks and nuns who took care of the patients, using both prayers and herbal remedies.
The hospital building impresses with its massive brick walls, tall windows, and cozy inner courtyard. Its architecture blends elements of Romanesque and Gothic styles, telling the story of the place's centuries-old history.
Interestingly, the hospital was not just a medical facility but also a center for charity. In the Middle Ages, many sick people suffered not only from illnesses but also from poverty, and Saint John’s Hospital was their salvation. Doctors and monks provided free treatment, food, and shelter.
Today, the building is no longer used as a hospital, but it houses a museum. Here, you can see unique medical instruments that were used hundreds of years ago, old recipes, and apothecary vessels. Special attention is given to the collection of artworks, including pieces by Hans Memling, one of the greatest Flemish painters, whose paintings were created specifically for the hospital.
