Hospices or Godskhuis, means "House of God", which actually means the shelters for the elderly and disadvantaged, has emerged in medieval times. Their founders were members of craft guilds and pastoral communities.

In Bruges is now such houses inhabited by old or poor people, there is still about fifty. All of them are in the state social security and turned into a picturesque corner of the city. In each of these complex consisting of small irregularly shaped houses, painted in warm colors, it has a chapel, or chapel, where earlier in the Middle Ages, the inhabitants of such shelters had to pray every night for the founders of their home. This architectural ensemble is closed by a high wall and has a single entrance from the street. Looking inside, you can understand the characteristics of the Flemish character, emphasizing kindness, love of home and family.

These homes are designed mainly for elderly people, and separately for men, women and couples. Most women are busy weaving lace bobbin. All are free to choose, do not know the anxiety and fear of the existence of a beggar.

Entrance to the poorhouse is decorated with figures of Jesus, Mary or other saints patrons. The main feature of the spiritual life of Bruges has always been a concern for the weak and impoverished townspeople, love of God and neighbor, so that every house in this quiet and cozy town attracts attention.