Provostry of St. Donatian

In 1560, Bruges for the first time became the seat of a bishopric, with Petrus Curtius as its first bishop.

He was also given the role of dean and chancellor, which continued to be held by the 17 successive bishops who would rule the diocese until the end of the 18th century.

The elaborate carving is the work was Bruges sculptor Cornelis Gailliaert.

This was necessary, as the east wall – which was not meant to be seen – was exposed when St. Donatian's Cathedral was demolished at the beginning of the 19th century.

The former provostry was given its current measurements in 1907 when it was extended by the addition of six bays on the left-hand side (towards the Markt) following the demolition of a number of houses.