Musée De Hospice Comtesse (Hospice Compesse Museum)

Museum in Lille

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Patrick

The Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse is one of Lille’s most atmospheric and historically rich museums, set within the former Hôpital Comtesse, a medieval hospital founded in 1237 by Joan of Constantinople, Countess of Flanders. Tucked away in the heart of Old Lille, the museum occupies a complex of brick and stone buildings that once served as both a place of healing and spiritual refuge. The setting itself feels like stepping into a different era, with cloistered courtyards, timber-framed rooms, and vaulted ceilings preserving centuries of local history.

Inside, the museum offers a compelling look at Lille’s past through a diverse collection of art, furniture, ceramics, tapestries, and religious artifacts. Rooms have been restored to resemble how they would have looked in the 17th and 18th centuries, giving visitors an intimate sense of daily life in a Flemish hospital and convent. Highlights include an old apothecary, a reconstructed chapel, and beautifully furnished living quarters that offer a window into the lives of the nuns and patients who once lived there.

Beyond its historical displays, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, often showcasing regional artists, local heritage, and broader cultural themes. Its blend of history, art, and architecture makes it a must-see for anyone interested in understanding Lille’s layered identity. Quiet, reflective, and beautifully preserved, the Hospice Comtesse Museum is a cultural gem that provides an immersive journey into the city’s medieval and early modern soul.

The Musée De Hospice Comtesse (Hospice Compesse Museum) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lille!

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Visiting Musée De Hospice Comtesse (Hospice Compesse Museum)

Hours:

Monday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Closed Monday morning, all day Tuesday and some public holidays.

Price:

Temporary exhibition: €6

Address: Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse, Rue de la Monnaie, Lille, France

Official Website