While researching on places to go in Belgium my friend referred Bruges and while doing my itinerary I came across this Basilica which houses the Blood of Christ as he was being cleaned by Joseph of Arimathea after his death. This was being guarded by a priest and one can touch the glass where it's placed, as in the enclosure!
Unlike the other saints who did not decompose and was in a glass enclosure or the Magi in Cologne this one can be seen closely, touched and you might have intentions, prayers or requests that you would like to do.
Just like any church this one also needs your donation for the upkeep of the place. I stayed for few minutes while praying for family, friends and my personal intention.
I felt the holiness of this church compared to the other big cathedral or churches I've been to.
From the outside - which is the only part I can make an opinion since it was closed and we couldn't wait for its opening - it's an interesting building located in the central part of Brugge.
We visited the Basilica and found the story of the blood interesting. We also went to the Treasury, which was quite small and not much to see. The Church is free, there is a charge for the Treasury which we would not recommend.
We were in time at 11.30 for the veneration of The Holy Blood. It was well organized, solemn and the young priest explained the proceedings in 3 languages. He did say it was not a tourist attraction but a veneration. I was delighted with this as I am a Catholic. No pictures are allowed of this event.It was beautiful. Pictures could be taken in other parts of the Church.
This is worth a visit! Beautiful interior, colorful, rich. Not too big, so it's a short visit. Be quiet inside.
