Kerk en Klooster van de Ongeschoeide Karmelieten (Church and monastery of the Discalced Carmelites)

In the 17th century, Bruges had at least twenty abbeys and convents, and today more than a quarter of the historic city centre is directly linked to religious life. Only two monastic orders are still present in the city: the English Convent and the Discalced Carmelites Convent. Both invite visitors to discover their authentic monastic life and spiritual heritage.

History of the Carmelites
The fascinating history of the Discalced Carmelites Convent starts in the 17th century, however, the order's origins date back to the 12th century. At that time, on Mount Carmel (North Israel), hermits began forming their own community. Around 1210 they received an official monastic rule from the patriarch of Jerusalem to mark their way of life. However, with the spread of Islam, Carmelites left the holy land in the same period. They scattered across Europe, also landing in Bruges in the mid-13th century.

In the 16th century, a new branch of Carmelites also emerged in Spain under the impulse of Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. This reformed order was stricter, and this was demonstrated by the fact that the religious members went without shoes. Since 1630, the Discalced Carmelites have been based in Bruges, first at Schaarstraat and later in the noble ‘Hof van Uytkerke’ residence in Ezelstraat.

The Discalced Carmelites in Bruges
This luxury residence from the 15th century was transformed to serve as a church, refectory and dormitory. A large garden is also part of the estate. Between 1688 and 1691 they built the church based on a design by brother Patricius from Antwerp. The façade shows striking similarities with that of St Augustine's church in Antwerp. The library was also built in this period. In the 18th century, the community of Discalced Carmelites in Bruges flourished, reaching more than 40 members (1773). A new, simple refectory on the garden side and other extensions changed the appearance of the convent complex once again.

The French Revolution marked the end of an era. Many religious communities disappeared. Unlike the Shoed Carmelites at Carmersstraat, the order of Discalced Carmelites survived this dramatic period. Although the estate had been sold, the prior of Ghent was able to repurchase the property and revive monastic life.

Baroque beauty in the Carmelite church
Although the architecture in the convent complex is simple and sombre, the church has a richly decorated Baroque interior. The purpose of religious art was to educate people in faith. Several lay brothers were responsible for the decoration. One of those was brother Victor, born as Jacob de Coster. Many of the sculpted decorations were his work: the main altar, the pulpit, the communion rail, the interior doors and wooden wall panelling. The church reveals almost every piece in his oeuvre.

The main altar is one of the highlights. It is made of wood, but painted to resemble marble. The painting on the altar was a gift from the City of Bruges, in gratitude for the brothers' efforts during the plague epidemic. During this period, the Carmelite monks won the hearts of people living in Bruges because they volunteered to help those suffering from the plague. In doing so, nine brothers and priests lost their lives.

Other must sees
The church and convent have a large estate in the city centre with a walled garden, large refectory and impressive library. The site is a historic treasure both inside and out. Today, some ten monks live there. Their life revolves around prayer and meditation, both in the community and individually. Those wishing to come here for some tranquillity may come and stay for a short or long period in Centre for Silence Sareptha, located on the monastic estate.

The church is open to the public during opening times, but the monastic estate itself is not accessible. Thanks to Sacred Books | Secret Libraries you can join a guided experience tour of the estate of the Discalced Carmelites. Together with a guide, take a silent and spiritual tour of the convent, with books as a common thread.

Virtual tour
Feeling curious? Get a virtual glimpse in the church of the Discalced Carmelites. 

Extra tip
Would you like to prepare your visit to the Carmelites Monastery? Then download the app Sacred Masters, available for Apple and Android. A Carmelite brother tells you in augmented reality about his monastery and the hidden gems that await you.