What not to miss in Antwerp: 5 Hidden Gems
Antwerp is a city full of surprises, and sometimes you stumble upon something that genuinely leaves you amazed, like a hidden green oasis or an impressive sculpture garden featuring 63 life-sized statues. In this blog, we’ll explore the five most enchanting hidden spots in Antwerp – must-see attractions you won’t want to overlook!
The Beguinage: A Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of the City
The Antwerp Beguinage lies behind a small door on Rodestraat, right amid the student neighborhood. Once the residence of beguines, devout women dedicated to serving God and the needy, this beguinage dates back to 1544. Even after the last Antwerp beguine passed away in 1986, the beguinage remains a unique place, always peaceful despite the bustling streets surrounding it.
Admire charming houses, stroll through a beautiful garden with ancient mulberry trees, and discover various sculptures adding character to the surroundings. Further inside the beguinage stands St. Catherine’s Church, designed by Pierre Bourla and still used for baptisms, weddings, and concerts.
The Vlaeykensgang: A Charming Alley with a Rich History
Another hidden gem awaits in the heart of Antwerp: the Vlaeykensgang (or Vlaaikensgang), a picturesque passageway adorned with medieval houses and courtyards. Connecting Hoogstraat, Oude Koornmarkt, and Pelgrimstraat, the entrance is easy to miss – keep a keen eye out!
Dating back to the 16th century, the Vlaeykensgang was once home to the city’s poorest residents. Today, it’s a delightful lane featuring antique shops, art galleries, and charming restaurants. During the summer, ‘t Hofke restaurant is a recommendation, boasting a beautiful courtyard in the Vlaeykensgang – a romantic spot for a delightful dinner or lunch.
Calvary of Saint Paul’s: An Impressive Artwork in a Stunning Church
One of Antwerp’s best-kept secrets is the Calvary of Saint Paul’s Church on Veemarkt. This life-sized depiction of Jesus’ Via Crucis showcases the events during the final hours of Jesus Christ’s life.
In the 17th century, Antwerp’s Dominicans aimed to promote pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Facing the Ottoman invasion, Dominicus van Ketwigh transformed a cemetery next to the church into a Baroque sculpture garden. The project spanned nearly half a century and involved various Antwerp Baroque sculptors.
The sculpture garden is a breathtaking “living theater” with 63 life-sized statues, nine reliefs, and spectacular rock formations leading you to the hill where the crucified Christ hangs.
You can visit Saint Paul’s Church and the Calvary for 5 euros (as of February 2024).
Inner Garden of the Plantin-Moretus Museum: A Green Oasis in the Heart of the City
In Antwerp, you’ll find the Plantin-Moretus Museum, the former home and printing press of the Plantin-Moretus family, prominent printers in the 16th and 17th centuries. Explore ancient printing presses, the library, and the family’s artworks. But there’s more: the inner garden. This green oasis in the city center offers beautiful flowers and blissful tranquility. Fun fact: the garden was designed in 1992 based on a 16th- and 17th-century model with plants known to Plantin himself.
Pedestrian Tunnel: A Unique Way to Cross the Scheldt River
Our final hidden gem is tucked underground – the Sint-Annatunnel or the “Pedestrian Tunnel,” a true historical treasure. Since 1933, this tunnel has connected the left and right banks. Descend using the wooden escalators or the lift found on both ends. The escalators, as are the mosaic tiles inside the tunnel, are a visual delight. After a 572-meter walk (or leisurely bike ride), you’ll emerge on the other side of the river, treated to a magnificent view of the city and the harbor.
These are just a few of Antwerp’s hidden gems; many more await discovery. If you’d like to explore Antwerp with a guide, book your tour with Walking in Antwerp now and let the city’s beauty and diversity surprise you. Antwerp is ready and waiting for you!
