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Antwerpen

Culture of Antwerpen. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

De Sint-Willibrorduskerk and basketball square

The old castle named Gaasbeek is one of most striking sights of Antwerp. The castle was built in the 16th century. The first fortifying facility appeared on the territory of the modern castle back in the 12th century. However, it couldn’t avoid the total destruction. Gaasbeek is one of the most significant historical landmarks of the country. Among the religious attractions of the city we can’t fail to note is Saint Charles Borromeo Church built in the early 17th century. It is a beautiful architectural monument of the Middle Ages built in magnificent Baroque style. The walls of the church keep 39 works by Rubens. The pictures suffered greatly during the fire, but they were carefully restored.

Authentic traditions, festivals and lifestyle of Antwerpen inhabitants

The local people are very friendly to visitors and are always willing to talk to them about any topic other than politics. Tourists are not recommended to discuss national issues with the …

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You should definitely visit Plantin-Moretus Museum, the collection of which is devoted to the history of typography. The museum contains a large library, which stores copies of rare and old books. The halls of the museum are decorated with exquisite decor items, many of which have a long history of more than one hundred years. Museum of Diamonds is, without a doubt, no less interesting. The treasury of the museum stores priceless jewelry. Some of the masterpieces were created by goldsmiths in the 16th century. Koh-i-Noor - the most beautiful diamond in the world - is also stored here. Other local attractions that are worth visiting include Hoogstraat Street, which is the location of numerous historic buildings. You will also find here lots of interesting shops and souvenir outlets.

During an excursion to Maritime Museum visitors can learn much interesting about the development and establishment of the local port area. The location of the museum is also very interesting – you will visit a beautiful Steen Castle, so this place of interest is attractive not only as a museum but also from an architectural point of view. The museum’s collection consists of a number of interesting exhibits connected with sailing. You will also find here some beautiful models of ancient ships. Visitors can make photographs and step onto the decks of beautiful ships and explore their environment. Grote Markt Square is surely a great place for observing. Numerous beautiful historic buildings are located around it. This place is particularly attractive during the Christmas season as the square turns into a huge market. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Your active city break in Antwerpen. Attractions, recreation and entertainment - best places to spend your day and night here

Antwerp is a perfect place for family holiday. Those tourists, who have come here with their families, should definitely visit the local zoo. It was founded over 150 years ago. Today the zoo …

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You can feel the spirit of the old city by walking along the Vlaeykensgang Street – this is a kind of hidden treasure of the world capital of diamonds; so to speak, a pearl among diamonds. The entrance to the street is covered by a high arch-door, and the street itself is situated far from the main square. The effort spent in finding it will definitely cause no regret. There are overhanging arches of old houses and fountains – and all this creates an unforgettable atmosphere of immersion in the Middle Ages. On this street, artisans were at one time repairing and making shoes.

Middelheim Museum is a kind of open-air museum that attracts tourists from all over the world with its sculptural structures, which can be enjoyed for hours. The Building of Havenhuis on the other hand can be admired for eternity. This unusual architectural structure immediately draws attention. Just by looking at it, many are surprised by the architectural genius and mastery of the creator, and it is no accident – to create such a masterpiece could only be the idea of a brilliant architect. And his name is Emiel van Averbeke. The building was constructed in 1922. Today, most of the interior rooms are occupied by departments of the Antwerp port.

Advices to travellers: what you should know while being in Antwerpen

1. All tourists have an opportunity to get a free city map without any complications. In order to get it simply go to any kiosk located near the train station or Groenplaats Square. 2. …

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Another remarkable feature of the city is that its territory is home to beautiful cathedrals. You should definitely not skip the “baroque gem in the Gothic garden” Sint-Pauluskerk – however, you probably would not miss it, since the building immediately attracts attention with its incredible beauty. Upon entering inside, you can find the excellent altar of Rosencrantz, and nearby, the works of Rubens, Anthony van Dyck and Jacob Jordaens. Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal is another building that must be visited. It impresses with its grandeur, not to mention the fact that the visit itself will bring unforgettable impressions. Here you will sure get an aesthetic pleasure encountering the works of Rubens.

By the way, the life of this great artist is very tightly connected with the city. It was here that the painter carried out his creations. You will therefore find many of his works in the churches of the city. Definitely worthy of a visit is Rubenshuis, which houses a collection of paintings and sculptures of various artists. There is also a beautiful garden behind the house. A noteworthy landmark of the city is Pagaddertoren – a watchtower, reminiscent of the Spanish dominion of Antwerp. The fact is that such towers were built in order to see when the Spanish ships sail for tribute. Information for fans of atmospheric species: the most beautiful sunset in the city can be seen from the port of Antwerp. From it is visible Havenhuis, some cozy streets of the city, and the beautiful waters of the river Scheldt.

In the section below, you can get one of our excursion, activities or city discovery tours over Antwerpen and surroundings. Our website offers 10-30% lower ticket prices, when compared to the offline purchase on the spot.

City tours, excursions and tickets in Antwerpen and surroundings

This guide to cultural sights Antwerpen is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.

Antwerpen - guide chapters 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Reference information

Map of all palaces

Public palaces near Antwerpen
♥ Palace 'Royal Palace of Antwerp' Antwerp, 0.6 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

Culture of Antwerpen. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

City tours, excursions and tickets in Antwerpen and surroundings

Photogallery of cultural heritage of Antwerpen

Landmarks of culture on Antwerpen map: art-galleries, monuments, palaces, etc

Excursions over cultural sights of neighbours of Antwerpen