FOR A GRITTY AND offbeat adventure in Antwerp, you won’t want to miss Schipperskwartier. This historic district has long been known for its red-light district and seedy reputation, but it’s also home to some hidden gems. Once a bustling port neighbourhood, Schipperskwartier has a long and fascinating history. Today, it’s still known for its notorious…
Author: Emma
Our podcaster-in-chief, Emma, has lived in Antwerp for over a decade and knows the city inside and out. With her finger on the pulse of Antwerp’s cultural scene, she’s the one to turn to for the latest happenings.
Het Steen: A Historic Fortress on the River Scheldt
LOCATED ALONG THE RIVER Scheldt, Het Steen is a centuries-old fortress that has been a symbol of the city’s strength and resilience for over 800 years. This stunning castle, with its unique architecture and rich history, is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Constructed in the 13th century, Het Steen has undergone several…
Antwerp’s Skyline Jewel: The Boerentoren
AS THE SUN SETS OVER the bustling city of Antwerp, the Boerentoren stands tall, a beacon of architectural brilliance. A symbol of the city’s rich history, this towering skyscraper has been a fixture of the Antwerp skyline for almost a century. History Built in 1932, the Boerentoren was once the tallest building in Europe and…
St Anna Pedestrian Tunnel: Exploring A Subterranean Sojourn
WITHIN THE CHARMING CITY of Antwerp, the remarkable St. Anna Tunnel tunnel lies beneath the water, an intriguing conduit that connects two shores of the Scheldt River. A living testament to the creative genius of human engineering and a significant thread in the tapestry of Antwerp’s history, this tunnel offers both residents and visitors alike…
The Rubens House (Rubenshuis): A Must-Visit for Art Lovers
THE CITY OF ANTWERP is known for many things, from its bustling port to its vibrant cultural scene. One of its most famous landmarks, however, is the Rubens House (Rubenshuis). This stunning 17th-century mansion was the home and studio of one of the city’s most beloved artists, Peter Paul Rubens. Rubens was a prolific painter…
Step Back in Time at the Museum Plantin-Moretus in Antwerp
LOVERS OF BOOKS, history, and art should not miss the Museum Plantin-Moretus, a hidden gem in Antwerp. Located in the heart of the city, this museum is a tribute to the world-renowned Plantin-Moretus publishing house, which operated in the 16th and 17th centuries. The museum houses a vast collection of artefacts, including antique books, manuscripts,…
The Enchanting Vlaeykensgang: A Must-See Attraction in Antwerp
THE VLEAYKENSGANG, located in the historic heart of the city, is a hidden gem that transports visitors back in time to the 16th century Antwerp. This narrow alleyway, known as the “Alley of the Little Flag,” was once a bustling commercial hub filled with craftsmen, merchants, and taverns. Today, it’s a peaceful haven where visitors…
Groenplaats: The Buzzing Square You Can’t Miss
IF YOU ARE LOOKING for a place to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Antwerp, look no further than the Groenplaats. This bustling square, located in the heart of the city, is surrounded by historic buildings, lively cafés, and plenty of greenery. As its name suggests, the Groenplaats, or “Green Square,” is filled with…
Antwerp’s Grote Markt: The Heart of the City’s Historic Centre
ANTWERP’S GROTE MARKT is a central square that’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Here’s everything you need to know about this historic and lively space. First things first, let’s talk about the history. The Grote Markt dates back to the 16th century and was once a bustling commercial hub. Today, the square is…
Antwerp Zoo: A Historical Gem in the Heart of the City
WELCOME TO THE ANTWERP ZOO, one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Europe! Situated in the heart of the city, this historical landmark boasts over 5,000 animals and 950 species. History In the heart of Antwerp lies a historical gem, the Antwerp Zoo. Founded in 1843, it is one of the oldest and…