Antwerp is a port city in Belgium, located on the River Scheldt, with a history that goes back to the Middle Ages. The Diamond District in the city center is famous for being home to many diamond traders, cutters, and polishers. The city’s Flemish Renaissance architecture can be seen in places like the Grote Markt, a central square in the old town. The Rubens House, a 17th-century home, showcases works by the famous Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens. Antwerp is also home to the Cathedral of Our Lady, which displays several of his paintings. The cobblestone streets lead to the 16th-century City Hall, and rows of guildhalls, once headquarters for merchants and craftsmen, are decorated with golden statues. The city’s riverside promenade and busy port can be enjoyed by walking, cycling, or taking a boat tour. Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts, founded in 1663, is well-known for its fashion school, which helped the city become famous for its avant-garde fashion in the 1980s, thanks to designers like the Antwerp Six.
Places to visit in Antwerp
Museum aan de Stroom
Museum aan de Stroom is a museum located in Antwerp’s Eilandje district along the Scheldt River. The building is made of red sandstone and features curved glass panels, showcasing postmodern Art Deco architecture. The museum’s first visitor gallery contains a collection of 180,000 items. It displays various exhibitions on history, art, and culture, with a strong focus on Antwerp’s maritime history. The museum also offers stunning views of the city from its rooftop.
Rubenshuis
Rubenshuis is the former home and workshop of the famous Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens. He bought the house in 1610, expanding it based on his designs, combining Italian Renaissance and Flemish architecture. The house includes his home, studio, a grand portico, and an inner courtyard. Visitors can see the layout of Rubens’ living space and the art he created there. The house also features paintings by Rubens himself, offering insight into his artistic process.
Plantin-Moretus Museum
The Plantin-Moretus Museum is dedicated to the work of 16th-century printers Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus. Located in their former residence and printing press in Antwerp, the museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses one of the world’s oldest surviving printing presses, along with an extensive collection of typographical materials. Visitors can also explore the business archives and admire the museum’s richly decorated interiors. The museum showcases the history of printing in a historical context.
Middelheim Open Air Sculpture Museum
Middelheim Open Air Sculpture Museum is located in the Middelheim Nachtegalen Park in Antwerp, covering 30 acres. The museum displays over 400 sculptures, including works by renowned artists like Auguste Rodin, Franz West, and Carl Andre. It provides a space for contemporary artists to create new works in dialogue with the permanent collection. The park is a blend of art and nature, with sculptures spread across the beautiful green landscape. It’s a great place to experience art in an open-air setting.
Vleeshuis
Vleeshuis is a former guildhall now turned into a museum, located in the heart of Antwerp. It stands between several narrow streets, including Drie Hespenstraat and Vleeshouwersstraat. The building’s history dates back to medieval times when it was a center for butchers and meat trade. Vleeshuis has been preserved as a museum to showcase Antwerp’s cultural history. Visitors can learn about its historical significance and view exhibits on medieval trade and guild life.
De Zoom
De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide is a cross-border park located on the Belgium–Netherlands border. It is a protected natural area managed by organizations from both countries. The park is home to rare species such as the smooth snake and viviparous lizard, along with various types of butterflies. It provides a peaceful environment for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, making it an excellent destination for eco-tourism.
St. Carolus Borromeuskerk Church
St. Carolus Borromeuskerk Church is located in central Antwerp, on Hendrik Conscience Square. The church is known for the 39 ceiling paintings by Rubens, although they were destroyed in a fire in 1718. It houses several of Rubens’ works, as well as paintings by other artists like Gerard Seghers and Daniel Seghers. The church’s Baroque interior is highly ornate, with rich decorations and sculptures. It remains one of Antwerp’s important religious and artistic landmarks.
Port of Antwerp
The Port of Antwerp is one of Europe’s largest seaports and plays a crucial role in global trade. Situated in the heart of Europe, the port is accessible to large ships and serves as a major commercial hub. The port stretches over several kilometers and includes various docks and terminals. It is vital to Antwerp’s economy, handling cargo, oil, and container shipments. Visitors can explore the busy port area by boat or along the riverside promenade.
St. Paul’s Church
St. Paul’s Church, or Sint-Pauluskerk, is a Roman Catholic church in Antwerp, located at the Veemarkt. The church combines Gothic and Baroque architectural styles, with a Baroque tower and a richly decorated interior. It is home to several important paintings by local artists, including Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and Jacob Jordaens. The church also features an impressive collection of sculptures and church furnishings crafted by leading Antwerp artists.
Brabo’s Monument
Brabo’s Monument, located in the Grote Markt of Antwerp, commemorates the legendary Roman soldier Silvius Brabo. According to the myth, Brabo defeated the giant Druon Antigoon, who had been cutting off the hands of sailors. The monument depicts Brabo throwing the giant’s hand into the Scheldt River. It is a tribute to the city’s folklore and history, and is a prominent feature in Antwerp’s central square, in front of the Town Hall.
Best time to visit Antwerp
The best time to visit Antwerp is between May and September, when the weather is warm and pleasant. This period offers ideal conditions for exploring the city’s attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. The summer months bring various festivals and events, enhancing the city’s vibrant atmosphere. During this time, you can also enjoy the beautiful parks, riverside promenades, and open-air cafes. It’s the perfect season to experience the full charm of Antwerp.
