Last Updated on 15 April 2025 by Vanessa

Heading to Bruges? There’s a special resident you can’t miss—Aristide.

This adorable black cat is not just any pet but the official mascot of Volkskundemuseum Brugge (Folk Museum in Bruges). He is an integral part of the museum experience, and you’ll find plenty of references to him throughout the exhibits.

Read on to find out what makes Aristide so unique and how he became the star of the museum and one of the most famous felines in Belgium?

Meet Aristide V, the feline Ambassador of Volkskundemuseum Brugge (Folk Museum in Bruges)

A short history of the Folk Museum in Bruges, Belgium

Before we dive into the story of Aristide IV, let’s first explore what makes the Folk Museum of Bruges, Volkskundemuseum Brugge, such a unique place to visit.

The museum was founded in 1937 and is housed in a series of beautifully restored 17th-century almshouses. These buildings were initially constructed to provide shelter for older people or those in difficult financial situations. Since 1973, the museum has been nestled in these historic buildings.

The museum started with a modest collection of household items and craft tools when it first opened. Still, over the years, it has expanded to include furniture, clothing, and other everyday objects that vividly depict everyday life in the region from the 19th century onward. There’s even an impressive display of Belgian lace.

You’ll step back in time as you explore areas dedicated to the local trades like shoemaker, weaver, and blacksmith. It also presents authentically restored rooms such as old-fashioned kitchens, classrooms, and grocery stores.

One of the museum’s standout features is its tavern, In de Zwarte Kat, where you can unwind and enjoy a drink, just like locals did in centuries past.

Read next: 18 must-visit cat cafés in Belgium – a purr-fect guide to coffee, cats, and cuddles

A black cat, French influence, and Flemish heritage

The Folk Museum in Bruges has a long tradition of cats, and right now, Aristide V is the reigning mascot.

Of cats and witches

Centuries ago, there were stories of cat-like shadows surrounded by blue fire that flared up between the cobblestones. When the locals were asleep, witches were said to have danced and sung there. As the climax of their dark ritual, they would kiss “a large black cat” under its tail. No one can confirm whether this was simply a very large cat or a manifestation of the Devil. Anyone who witnessed this was said to be dragged to hell.

Le Chat Noir

We do know that following the famous cabaret in Montmartre, a literary society named ‘Chat Noir’ was founded in Bruges in 1894. Hidden in a back room of a café on Langestraat, ‘Le Lion Belge’ (named after another feline), artists would indulge in drinks and each other’s poetry into the early hours of the morning. The candlelight dimmed around 1900, but this old artistic society was revived in 1984.

This took place at the Folk Museum, where members of the revival group decided to name a black cat as the museum’s official mascot.

Its name was Aristide, a tribute to Aristide Bruant, a French singer and poet famous for performing at the legendary Le Chat Noir nightclub in Paris. By naming their cats after Bruant, the museum honors its feline predecessors and ties into its theme of art and folk culture—a perfect fit for a museum that celebrates the everyday life of Flanders.

Aristide II & Aristide III

Not much is known about the mysterious Aristide II, as he was rarely seen.

However, this museum cat was shy but very well-loved by the visitors. You could easily recognize him by the small notch in his ear.

Sadly, he became seriously ill and retreated from the spotlight at the end of his career. In November 2015, the young Aristide IV arrived from the shelter to fill this gap.

Aristide IV

Aristide IV loved spending time in the museum’s inn and quickly became a genuine people’s cat, charming everyone with his friendly nature.

At the end of 2021, Aristide disappeared. No one has seen him since.

The Folk Museum, without its feline mascot, was like a café without beer. Visitors kept asking about Aristide. So, a job vacancy was posted.

The museum had a few specific requirements for its new cat. Apart from being black, he had to take care of several duties:

• He is partly responsible for greeting museum visitors.
• He is the go-to for pets and cuddles.
• He occasionally provides entertainment and charm.
• He enjoys napping in the sun, regularly checks for attention in the museum inn, and gazes out the window.
• He also takes on small maintenance tasks, such as catching mice, chasing after birds, and digging in the dirt.

The search for the perfect cat even made it to the national news and appeared in various newspapers.

After much anticipation, the museum finally found its new cat. Meet Aristide V.

Read next: Is B’Aristokat Kortrijk worth visiting?

Meet Aristide V: the Folk Museum’s beloved “spinfluencer” and mascot

Since he arrived at the Folk Museum in Bruges, Aristide V has quickly become the museum’s “spinfluencer” and an adored figure. This black cat has charmed the museum staff and visitors from all over. He is a symbol of the museum.

Aristide’s past

Before becoming the famous Aristide V, the cat was known as Nox.

Born in France, he was a true chat noir—a black cat who lived in an apartment in Heist-op-den-Berg with his previous owners, Valérie and Geert. Nox was a social, affectionate cat who loved being around people. Yet he lacked the freedom of a garden or outdoor space.

After reading about the museum’s search for a new mascot in the newspaper, Valérie and Geert thought the Folk Museum was the perfect fit for their beloved Nox. With a heavy heart but a sense of relief, they entrusted their cat to the museum, knowing he would be well taken care of.

Aristide V’s new life at the Folk Museum

Aristide V is living the life of a true royalty at the museum. In exchange for his “services,” the cat enjoys a cozy room, premium food, toys, a giant scratching post, and all the cuddles and attention he can handle.

He also has a dedicated “cat team” of seven volunteers who regularly care for him, provide food, take him to the vet, and keep his royal litter box clean. They ensure Aristide V feels at home, and he’s always happy to receive visits from them.

A friend to all

Aristide V has also become the staff’s best friend. He’s adored by everyone, often curling up on laps, including those of mannequins depicting trades, especially the tailor. His social nature makes him the perfect companion among visitors and staff.

A cat with privileges

Aristide has a cat door that gives him access to the museum’s courtyard and garden. However, he cannot venture further than that for safety reasons.

To ensure no one loses track of him, the museum has equipped Aristide V with a tracker, just in case.

During the day, he roams freely throughout the museum. However, when the museum closes, he retreats to his room to avoid setting off the security alarm.

Aristide V’s role in the museum

Aristide V is not just a mascot; he’s an integral part of the museum experience.

Almost every room has a reference to Aristide, whether it’s a picture, drawing, or even a version of the classic game “Guess Who?” featuring Aristide as one of the characters.

Aristide’s own board game

In November 2024, Aristide V became the star of his own board game, Kattenstreken (which translates to Cat Tricks in English). It is based on the classic “Goose Game” and is beautifully illustrated by former museum illustrator Pieter Van Eenoge. It’s a must-have for families, game enthusiasts, Brugge residents, museum visitors, and cat lovers.

You can find it for sale at the museum or from local retailers.

Meeting Aristide V

If you’re lucky, you might even meet Aristide V during your visit to the Folk Museum. He’s often found lounging in the museum garden or even inside the cozy museum inn, “In de Zwarte Kat.”

If you can’t spot him right away, don’t worry! Look for his room, marked with a large cat on the door and a paw print nearby. Also, the friendly staff is always happy to help you track him down and will gladly point you in the right direction.

Read next: Kitty fever: why everyone in Brussels is crazy about Brasserie Mokafé’s resident cat

Volkskundemuseum Brugge: practical information

Tickets

Tickets for the Folk Museum of Bruges, Volkskundemuseum Brugge, are priced at €8, and you can order them online at the same price as buying them at the museum. However, purchasing tickets in advance online means you can skip the lines—instrumental during weekends and holiday periods when the museum can get quite busy.

Opening hours

The opening hours of the Folk Museum in Bruges, Volkskundemuseum Brugge, are as follows:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
• Monday: Closed (except on holidays)

The museum is closed on several public holidays, such as Christmas and New Year’s Day. It’s always a good idea to check the official website for any updates or special closures.

Address

Volkskundemuseum Brugge, Balstraat 43, 8000 Bruges, Belgium.

How to get to there?

The Folk Museum of Bruges is easily accessible from the Bruges train station:

• On foot: It’s a 20-minute walk through the city center, allowing you to enjoy the sights of Bruges.
• By bus: You can take bus lines 4 or 14 from the station towards the city center and get off at the Schaarstraat stop, just a short walk from the museum. The bus ride takes around 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute walk.
• By bike: Bruges is a bike-friendly city, and you can easily rent a bike at the station. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes.

The museum is in the historic Sint-Anna district, a charming and peaceful neighborhood northeast of the city center. This area is known for its picturesque, narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and attractions like the Jeruzalemkerk (Jerusalem Church) and the mills along the city ramparts. The Balstraat, where the museum is situated, embodies the old-world charm of Bruges, offering visitors an authentic historical experience. Most of the city’s other sights are just a few minutes walk away.

Where to stay?

Here are three great hotel recommendations for your stay in Bruges, each offering a unique experience based on your budget and preferences:

Hotel De Castillion

If you’re willing to splurge a bit for an elegant experience, Hotel De Castillion is an excellent choice. This small, family-run hotel exudes luxury and charm, perfect for those who want to stay in the heart of Bruges’ historic center. The hotel is located in a beautifully restored 16th-century building. It offers personalized service that makes you feel like you’re at home. It’s ideal for visitors looking for a more upscale hotel, with easy access to Bruges’ main attractions. Guests can expect tastefully decorated rooms and a lovely breakfast in a quiet, refined atmosphere. It’s an excellent option for those who have some budget to spare.

Golden Tulip Hotel de’ Medici

For a mid-range option with a bit of luxury, Golden Tulip Hotel de’ Medici is a fantastic choice. Situated in the city center, this hotel offers comfort and a beautiful view of the canals, giving you a picturesque and serene stay. It combines modern amenities with historic charm, ensuring a great experience for all guests. The hotel also features a wellness area and cozy facilities, making it ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and convenience. Whether you’re in Bruges for business or leisure, this hotel is an excellent balance of comfort and affordability.

Hotel Olympia

If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a comfortable stay, Hotel Olympia offers a great option. It’s a cozy, friendly hotel just a 15-minute walk from the city center and only 10 minutes from the train station. The hotel offers great value for money with comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Its location is perfect for those visiting the Razor Reel Flanders Film Festival, as it is right next door to the venue, making it particularly convenient for festival attendees. The hotel also has a cozy bar area where guests can relax after a day of sightseeing.

Each hotel provides something unique based on your budget and needs, so you will have a memorable stay in Bruges!

Final thoughts

If you find yourself in Bruges, visiting the Folk Museum, Volkskundemuseum Brugge, is a must. Not only will you get a deep dive into the rich cultural history and fascinating exhibits, but you’ll also get to meet Aristide.

So, the next time you’re in Bruges, be sure to stop by the Folk Museum, say hello to Aristide, and take in all its amazing stories.

Have you met Aristide? We’d love to hear about your experience! Please share your thoughts or photos with us on X or Facebook, or let us know how this charming cat added to your visit in the comments!

Read next: Avalon, the story of a Belgian cat who became an international icon

Discover the extraordinary life of one of the most famous felines in the world: Avalon!

This cat is a true Belgian legend who captured hearts, outwitted humans, and lived a life full of cinematic adventures.

The book takes us on a journey through Avalon’s life as a feline movie star, sharing funny, touching, and downright charming moments that will make you laugh, smile, and maybe even tear up a little.

If you’re a fan of Aristide V’s antics at the Folk Museum in Bruges, then you’re going to love Avalon as well. Get your copy today! Available in English and French.

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