Bruges … always fascinating …with a twist this time .

We started with a guided visit of the Old Saint John’s Hospital, back to the Middle Ages. “Hospital“ had an different meaning then, it stood for hospitality, everybody in need was welcome for help. The rightful translation of the ‘Works of Mercy’.

Medical help was provided when needed — but looking at the instruments …I don’t think we would have enjoyed it …
And not to forget the fabulous Hans Memling collection, a real gem ! 

A good lunch at the “Duc de Bourgogne “, an old fashioned restaurant but tables with white cloth and napkins are still oh so pleasant!

In the afternoon we had the rare opportunity to enter the College of Europe, the oldest postgraduate institute of European studies .
The college is housed in an ancient Jesuit Friary . 
We came to discover the Groeninghe collection of contemporary art, guided by a nice lady trying țo explain the meaning of all this. But I guess she’d have had an easier audience guiding younger people … What is ART ???

The event finished in style in the very elegant salons of the Grand Hotel Casselbergh with a drink . 
Great day and thank you, André ! 

Nelly De Clercq

Comment by Ginny Caldwell:

Thank you so much, André, for organizing this visit to Bruges.

We loved the new configuration of the St John’s Hospital as it gives a much clearer explanation of the hospital’s impressive history as a civic enterprise to offer health care to the poor from the 13th Century to the 1970’s.

We had an excellent guide to take us through the different sections & it was a surprise to everybody that even during the early years the cure success rate for 75%. As our guide explained, it was sheer luxury for poor people to receive daily hot meals, combined with bed rest from their hard working lives.

We also loved the new glass chapel within a chapel to display the stunning Memling collection.

Thank you also for the treat of a delicious lunch at the historic Duc de Bourgogne restaurant, followed by the afternoon’s visit to see the Groeninghe contemporary art collection in the College of Europe – something only accorded to 3 or 4 groups a year, and I’m sure only because you are an ex-Alumnus!.