A Lovely Church in Bruges
The Karmeliter Church in Bruges is also known as the Abbey of the Carmelites (=Klooster van de ongeschoeide karmelieten).
The church / abbey is situated in Ezelstraat in Bruges. When you are on your way from the city centre to Ezelpoort, you will come across the church which you will find on the right. The building looks rather plain but it is worthwhile stepping in and enjoy the interior and the peace in the church.
The Carmelite Order is present in Bruges since the 17th century and was established there in 1630. The reformed arm of the order settled in Bruges, known as the Shoeless Carmelites. The names stems from the idea to abstain from wearing shoes as sign of an austere monastic life.
The monastery is still operative and the monastic buildings are directly connected to the church building. Coming from the city centre one first arrives at the monastic buildings first. The cloister garden is on the back of the monastery. The visitor can step into the church. The door is open and access to the vestibule and nave is open.
The church welcomes the visitor into a room full of tranquility and peace. And peace it is that carries you out when you continue your way through Bruges.
When you walk down that street you would not expect much from the building shown on the left. So did I. More or less I was forced into that building and was more than impressed when I saw what was inside. So will you.
Words might fail to express what you see, call it superb, magnificent, luxuriant, whatever it is simply stunning. See for yourself.
Besides, the door is open and you can sit down inside the church and reflect on yourself. The church is absolutely quiet, there is no sound that might disturb you.
Inside Carmelite Kerk in Bruges
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