Today, visitors can still admire the unique legacy of the Adornes family in Bruges. The Adornes Estate – with the townhouse, almshouses and beautiful garden – continues to be managed by descendants of the founders and is a potent reminder of their noble lifestyle. The fascinating Jerusalem Chapel, a replica of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, also conferred special prestige on the family with its atypical architecture and strong symbolic power.


So who were the Adornes? When did they arrive in Bruges from Genoa, and how did they manage to establish themselves there as one of the most influential families of the fifteenth century? A group of scholars, led by historians Jan Dumolyn and Noël Geirnaert, contribute their expertise to shed light on this extraordinary dynasty. The unique history of the Adornes family is brought to life as never before in many stunning images and superb details.