Godshuis Spanoghe, Historic almshouse in Brugge, Belgium
Godshuis Spanoghe is an almshouse in Bruges featuring painted Flemish brick facades with arched entrances, small rectangular windows, and continuous gabled rooflines. The complex is divided into separate dwelling units arranged around a courtyard accessible through a narrow arched gate.
The almshouse was established in 1680 by Francesca Spanoghe to provide shelter for elderly women. The structure underwent major renovation work in 1939 by architect Maurice Vermeersch.
The almshouse demonstrates how charitable housing operated in Bruges, offering residents both shelter and community within a structured courtyard setting. The arrangement of modest dwellings reflects the approach to providing dignity and care to those in need.
You can enter the complex through a narrow arched gate on Katelijnestraat, which opens to a quiet courtyard space. The residential units are visible from the garden area and offer a good view of the layout.
The complex was originally designed with six separate dwelling units, but later reduced to four residences with distinct structures. This transformation reflects how charitable buildings adapted their use over the centuries.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
