The Provincial Court of Bruges - Belgium

Governor Heyvaert appointed city architect Louis Delacenserie and provincial architect René Buyck as designers of the Provincial Court in 1880. Their plans were approved in 1883, and construction on the foundations began in 1881. The Provincial Court served as the venue for provincial council meetings and was made available to the Governor for hosting events like parties, balls, banquets, and receptions. It was constructed in the neogothic style.

In 2018, the Province of West Flanders acquired the Provincial Court from the Government Buildings Agency with the ambition of transforming it into an open house for a diverse audience. The building, over 125 years old, required renovations to prepare it for its new purpose. Exterior renovation work commenced at the end of 2020, including the restoration of the copper statue 'Saint Michael and the Dragon,' the guardian angel of West Flanders.

Subsequently, interior renovations began in May 2022, focusing on sustainability and accessibility. Energy-efficient lighting was installed for chandeliers and wall fixtures, and lifts were incorporated while preserving the building's authenticity. The Provincial Court will be the first building in the centre of Bruges to have a Changing Places [accessible toilet] facility.

The renovated Provincial Court is now an open house where everyone can freely come and go during opening hours. In addition to open visitation, the renovated rooms of the Provincial Court can also be rented out as a venue for conferences and events.

This heritage building has become much more accessible for persons with disabilities. It almost reaches the accessibility standards of a new building. We are now investigating the possibility of granting the building a so-called M+ label for its accessibility. This label stands for an easily accessible MICE (meeting and convention venue) venue. This means it is easily accessible for visitors and employees, with and without disabilities. This label includes a more limited set of additional accessibility criteria than the M++ accessibility label. 

Some notable accessibility interventions in this historic building include:

• The existing monumental heritage staircase at the entrance has been retained. Next to the staircase, a new lift has been integrated into the building.
• The reception desk has a low counter and one section can be lowered further to welcome visitors who may be of short stature or who use a wheelchair.
• The exhibition elements take into account an accessible experience for everyone.
• The Provincial Court is the first building in Bruges to have a Changing Place. This is a large, accessible sanitary facility equipped with a WC, a  shower, a height adjustable changing bench and a hoist.

More about the Provincial Court of Bruges and practical information.

The Provincial Court of Bruges' Images. 

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