Royal City Theater, Brugge

The Royal City Theater in Bruges is regarded as one of the best preserved play houses in Europe. Contemporary dance and theater performances and music concerts take place here all year round.

The Royal City Theater was founded in 1864. A competition was launched by the city authorities for a suitable building design. The design of Brussels architect, Gustave Saintenoy was chosen. His design was inspired by the Opera House building in Paris designed by Charles Garnier. It was recently restored to its former glory when Bruges was declared the Cultural Capital of Europe by the European Union along with Salamanca in Spain in 2002.

The Royal City Theater has an elegant yet austere neo-renaissance façade. The balconies are flanked by Corinthian columns to resemble a Roman palace. The attic of the façade shows the coat of arms of the City of Bruges. The interior consists of an ornate foyer in eclectic architectural style and a magnificent auditorium. It is the home of the Bruges Cultural Center. The organization holds regular performances of modern dance, contemporary theatricals and jazz music concerts at the theater. Many well known international stars have performed here including Joan Baez in 2009. The theater hosted the 17th European Concert in 2011. The building looks magnificent when illuminated at night.