Church of Our Lady

Overview

The Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) boasts the tallest brick tower in the world at 115.5 metres and houses Michelangelo's Madonna and Child (1504) — the only Michelangelo sculpture to leave Italy during his lifetime. The church also contains the painted tombs of Charles the Bold and Mary of Burgundy.

Highlights

• Michelangelo's Madonna: A serene Carrara marble sculpture originally made for Siena's cathedral.
• Ducal mausolea: The lavishly decorated tombs of Charles the Bold (d. 1477) and Mary of Burgundy (d. 1482).
• Brick tower: At 115.5 m, it is the tallest brick structure in the world.

History

Construction began in the 13th century and continued for over 200 years. The Michelangelo was purchased by a Bruges cloth merchant, Giovanni de' Mouscron, in 1506. It was looted by Napoleon in 1794 and the Nazis in 1944, both times safely returned.

Visitor Tips

• Paid section: The Michelangelo and tombs require a ticket; the nave is free.
• Photography: Allowed without flash.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.