Church of the Holy Blood of Christ

The Church of the Holy Blood of Christ is located in Bruges, and not only believers from the city come here, but also travelers from different countries, including pilgrims. In fact, it is difficult to overestimate the importance of this small temple, it houses a shrine of the first order, namely a particle of the blood of Christ. Eyewitnesses say that the substance, which is hidden in a rock crystal and a golden sarcophagus, produces indescribable sensations for everyone who sees it.

History of creation

The first mention of the Church of the Holy Blood of Christ in Bruges dates back to the 13th century, so it is believed that the sacred relic came here after the crusade, during which the treasuries of Constantinople were looted. A basilica was erected to store the treasure. The Church of the Holy Blood of Christ consists of two parts that differ in style and design - the first lower limit is built in a strict and ascetic Romanesque style. Simple walls made of ancient brick, almost completely missing various decorations. This is part of the enlightened sorrow for the crucified Christ.

Above there is a chapel in the ceremonial Gothic style. Its windows are decorated with colorful stained glass windows, murals and paintings on the walls, the altar and the iconostasis are real works of art. In this part, the ark with blood is kept. During a special ceremony, the particle is taken out of the ark and shown to those present, photos and videos of this process are strictly prohibited. Entrance to the Church of the Holy Blood of Christ is paid, and those who wish to look at the relic make donations, the amount of which is not fixed and is determined by everyone independently.

Holy Blood Procession

If you want to visit the Church of the Holy Blood of Christ, it is important to know that every year in Bruges there is a magnificent celebration with elements of theatrical performance. This happens in May on the day of the church feast of the Ascension of Christ. A solemn procession passes through the streets of the old town. The clergy carry a special stretcher with the ark on their shoulders. Solemn music is playing. The procession is quite large-scale. Many residents of the city participate in it, including children, and there are also animals - dogs, sheep, camels and donkeys.

The tradition of holding such magnificent Processions has been preserved in the city since ancient times, since the very days when the relic appeared in the city. All the action is precisely calibrated, and the precision of the actors' movements is impressive. Huge crowds of people gather to watch the Procession and the removal of Blood, both the local population and tourists who come especially for this holiday. The Church of the Holy Blood of Christ and the urban traditions associated with it make an equally strong impression on both believers and atheists.