Sashuis, Floodgate house at Minnewater, Belgium

The Sashuis is a two-story brick building with a steep slate roof at the edge of Minnewater in Bruges. Light stone bands and window surrounds contrast with the reddish-brown brick, and three tall brick chimneys with stepped tops rise above the roofline. The front facade has three arched groups of windows, each divided into two tall panes by a central mullion, and two low stone arches open at water level.

The building was constructed in 1519 as a lock connecting Bruges canals with Minnewater lake. It played a key role in supporting medieval trade activities and managing the city's water system over the following centuries.

The name Sashuis refers to the lock chamber where boats waited while water levels were adjusted. The building is a protected monument (beschermd monument) and appears on Bruges' heritage lists. Its two low stone arches at water level are still visible from the Minnewater paths.

The building sits along Minnewater Park and is easily reached on foot, near Sint Janshospital and Begijnhof. The best way to see it is by walking the paths around Minnewater, where you can explore other historical sites at the same time.

The two low stone arches at water level are the visible remains of the lock passage; the brick upper floors housed the machinery and the operator. The name Sashuis refers to the sluice itself, built in 1519 where the canal meets the Minnewater. Look for the light stone bands and window surrounds that contrast with the reddish-brown brick.