Heiling Bloedprocessie

Each year in Brugge, more than 2000 locals take part in the colourful, medieval-style Heiling Bloedprocessie (Procession of the Holy Blood) which dates back to the 13th century and is held annually on Ascension Day (this year, May 25th). Fortunately, the rain held off long enough for the 2-hour procession, replete with 2000 costumed procession participants, live animals, bands, and floats, to weave through the streets of Brugge.

First, the legend, as I certainly needed some background to understand what I was seeing. According to tradition, Derrick of Alsace, Count of Flanders, brought the relic of Holy Blood with him after the second crusade, having supposedly received it in the Holy Land around 1150 AD. Arriving in Brugge on April 7th, 1150, Count Derrick and his wife, Sybilla, presented the Holy Relic to the Basilica Chapel on the Brugge's Burg, where it has remained to this day.

So exactly what is the Holy Relic? Supposedly, this relic is Christ’s coagulated blood, which is sealed in a small oblong rock-crystal flask (11th -12th century). This flask is in turn concealed in a glass cylinder that has been decorated with golden crowns (see last photo). It is written, that after the descent from the Cross, whilst washing Christ’s body, Joseph of Arimathea, took the blood and preserved it. It remained in Jerusalem until 1150 when it was given as a reward for heroism during the Crusades to Count Derrick.

From 1303, each year a procession of major spectacle occurs throughout the streets of Brugge. The procession is essentially divided into 4 sections:

* Bible scenes from the Old Testament
* Bible scenes from the New Testament
* Scenes showing the historical part where Derrick of Alsace brings the relic to Brugge from Jerusalem
* The shrine with the relic, along with members of the Brotherhood of the Holy Blood, as well as clerical and civic authorities.

Regardless of your beliefs about religious relics and their authenticity, it is an important tradition in Brugge. So much so, that tickets are purchased well in advance from a "Ticketmaster - like" outlet. The Budman and I had perfect seats in the market square, sitting atop risers and watching the procession.

First, the Basilica of the Holy Blood where the relic is normally maintained. Entrance to the 12th century chapel that houses the Holy Blood Relic.



Interior of the Basilica of the Holy Blood.





For your viewing pleasure, the procession. First, the opening of the Holy Blood Procession, Brugge.



Scenes from the Old Testament: Adam and Eve.



Cain and Abel.



Joseph being sold into slavery.





Pharaoh and plague of Egypt.



Scenes from the New Testament: The Birth of Christ.



Entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.





Pilate asks: Jesus or Barabbas?



Jesus carrying the cross to Golgotha.



The Resurrection Tomb.



Scene from the Brugge section of the Holy Blood Procession: the relic being brought into Brugge after the Crusades by Derrick and Sybilla.



The procession of the Holy Relic itself.