Provost's House, Brugge

The Provost's House, also known as the Provostry of Saint Donatian, is a significant historical building located in the Burg Square of Bruges. Built between 1665 and 1666, this Baroque palace was designed by Cornelis Verhoeven and canon Frederic Hillewerve, both from Antwerp. It is celebrated for its striking Baroque architecture, a style that was dominant in 17th-century Antwerp and is quite distinctive in the city center of Bruges.

Originally constructed as the residence for the bishop of Bruges, the Provost's House played a central role in the ecclesiastical administration of the region. It served as the headquarters for the ecclesiastical seigniory of Saint Donatian, which was an important administrative and judicial entity under the control of the bishop. The bishops of Bruges, who were also deans and chancellors of the County of Flanders from 1560 until the end of the 18th century, resided here.

The design features of the Provost's House include a grand entrance initially intended for horses and carriages, and it is adorned with sculptures by Bruges sculptor Cornelis Gailliaert, including figures of Lady Justice and the Greek gods symbolizing truth, charity, and justice. The building's facade is an example of the elaborate carving typical of the triumphal Baroque style associated with the Counter-Reformation.

Throughout its history, the building has undergone several renovations and extensions, notably in 1865 and again in 1907, the latter following the demolition of adjacent houses which allowed for further expansion. The Provost's House was meticulously restored between 1972 and 1974 by architect Luc Dugardyn, and the statues were renewed in Lavaux stone by J. Dekeyzer. Another refurbishment took place in 2001, highlighting its ongoing preservation.

Today, the Provost's House serves as part of the official residence of the governor of West Flanders and houses various government offices. It stands as a testament to Bruges' rich architectural heritage and its well-preserved Baroque elements, making it one of the jewels of this historically significant Flemish city.