Page 104 - (DK Eyewitness) Top 10 Travel Guide - Brussels Bruges Ghent & Antwerp

102  BEY OND BRUSSELS

Gruuthusemuseum
The Gruuthusemuseum occupies a large medieval mansion close to
the Dijver Canal. In the 15th century it was inhabited by the mer chant 2nd Floor
(or Lord of the Gruuthuse) who had the exclusive right to levy a tax on
the “Gruut”, an imported mixture of herbs added to barley during the
beer-brewing process. The mansion’s labyrinthine rooms, with their
ancient chimneypieces and wooden beams, have survived intact and
hold a priceless collec tion of fine and applied arts. There are tapestries,
wood carvings, furniture and even a medical section devoted to cures
of everyday ailments. The kitchen and original 1472 chapel
transport visitors back to medieval times. The museum will be
closed for restoration until 2018.

1st Floor
Façade of the Gruuthuse
The museum’s Gothic façade, with its elegant
tower, stepped gables and fine stone windows,
was built in the 15th century.

Ground
Floor

. Charles V bust
This incredibly life-like
terracotta and wood
bust of Haps burg king Entrance
Charles V was carved in
1520 and is attributed to
German sculptor Konrad Meit.

The Seven Free Arts
Dating from around 1675,
this exquisite tapestry
depicts the “free arts”, which
includes music.

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