Antwerp Infoguide by Toerisme Vlaanderen

Emergency numbers Police: dial 101 Fire brigade: dial 100 Medical emergency service: dial 100 General information police: dial 0800 123 12 Belgian poison control centre: dial 070 245 245

TPA

Central phone numbers: Doctors: +32 3 286 11 86 Dentists: +32 3 448 02 20 Pharmacies: 0900 10 500 (10 pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9 am), www.apotheek.be (Dutch, French) Vets: +32 3 233 56 51

Student websites www.jac.be (Dutch) www.student.antwerpen.be (Dutch) www.jeugd.antwerpen.be (Dutch) www.use-it.be (Dutch, English)

Public holidays The public holidays in Belgium are: New Year 1/1, Easter Monday (the municipal museums are exceptionally open), Labour Day 1/5, Ascension, Whit Monday (the municipal museums are exceptionally open), National holidays 21/7, Assumption Day 15/8, All Saints 1/11, Armistice Day 11/11 and Christmas 25/12. Public services, companies and stores are closed during these holidays.

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Local holidays in Antwerp are: second day of the New Year 2/1, Festival of the Flemish Community 11/7 and Boxing Day 26/12. Some services and/or companies are closed; most of the shops are open.

Information

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Welcome in Antwerp

Contents 1. 2.

3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

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Welcome in Antwerp Art - The City of Rubens - Museums - Historical churches Diamonds Fashion Water Walking & Out and about Shopping Good food Going out Attractions Sightseeing More Antwerp, from A to Z How to get there Information

7 17 17 19 49 59 65 69 75 87 95 101 107 119 125 135 143

Welcome in Antwerp

1. Welcome Welcome in Antwerp

he people of Antwerp bid you a hearty welcome to the “Sinjorenstad”. The nickname “sinjoren”, which Antwerp citizens wear with pride, dates back to the 16th Century, the Golden Age. The city was one of the most important cultural and economic centres worldwide. In the eyes of often slightly envious outsiders many Antwerp residents lead the lives of true gentlemen: courtly and self-assured, people referred to them as “sinjeurs” (in reference to the Spanish señor). A fascinating stay awaits you in this city on the river Scheldt, with its international port and cruise port. The Antwerp port, which is the second largest in Europe, is largely responsible for the city’s prosperous and cosmopolitan character, its colourful and festive atmosphere. You will soon discover that the cosmopolitan “Sinjoren” extend a warm welcome. They will always be happy to help you out, if at all possible in your own language. It’s always interesting to stay in a city bustling with culture and trade... because here in Antwerp, the eighth art is the art of living! Antwerp indulges gourmet lovers and bon vivants like no other city on earth.

Antwerp is a true celebration of life and you are our guest of honour!

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Welcome in Antwerp

Though the story of Brabo is complete ﬁction, the “Sinjoren” nevertheless still pay tribute to their legendary liberator on the Grote Markt (the square in front of the town hall). The bronze fountain (1887) was created by Antwerp sculptor Jef Lambeaux.

An eventful history

left: Main Square

The name, the legend Right up and into the 17th Century Antwerp was often spelt as “Hantwerpen”. Hardly surprising really, because according to an old legend this was the way it should be. Legend has it that at the beginning of time the bend in the River Scheldt was in hands of the giant Antigoon, who demanded a heavy toll from each passing shipmaster. Those who refused to pay had a hand chopped off. A Roman soldier, Silvius Brabo, brought an end to this awful practice, by slaying the giant, chopping off his hand and throwing it into the river. Hence “Hantwerpen” or “hand throwing”. The H disappeared over time, but “Antwerpen” stuck. So much for the legend. In reality the name Antwerpen probably derives from the word “aanwerp”, an alluvial mound in the River Scheldt, at the height of the Steen, which was the site of an early settlement. Towards the end of the 19th Century this alluvial mound disappeared when the quays of the River Scheldt were straightened.

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How old is Antwerp? Excavations have shown that people were already living in the bend of the River Scheldt as long ago as the Gallo-Roman period (2nd and 3rd Centuries A.D.). The site must have been inhabited again around 650 during the Christianisation of the region. In 836 the Vikings destroyed this residential nucleus. Later people migrated towards the “aanwerp”, the alluvial mound at the height of the later Steen castle from which the city probably derives its name. Today’s Antwerp developed from that original nucleus. Around 970 Antwerp became a border town of the German empire. Fortiﬁcations were necessary and a wooden fort was built, which was later replaced by a stone stronghold (het Steen) with a surrounding wall. Antwerp became a margraviate (a border province) of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. The border was the River Scheldt and the County of Flanders lay across the river. On the south side of the city St. Norbert founded St. Michael’s Abbey in the 12th Century. The canons of the little church on this side of the city moved to the northern nucleus where they founded a new parish around the Church of Our Lady – the forerunner of the Cathedral of Our Lady. The city, which was now part of the Duchy of Brabant, continued to expand in concentric circles with successive bulwarks, which can still be identiﬁed in the city’s street pattern today.

The giant Lange Wapper, Steenplein

Welcome in Antwerp

A first economic boom followed in the first half of the fourteenth century. Antwerp became the most important trading and financial centre in Western Europe; its reputation was based largely on its seaport and its wool market. In 1356 the city was annexed to the County of Flanders and lost many of its privileges, among others to Bruges’ advantage.

Cathedral of Our Lady

Some fifty years later the political and economic tide turned again and the run-up to the Golden Age began, during which Antwerp developed into a world class metropolis at every level: almost like a sixteenth- century Manhattan. It was this centre of trade and culture, which Florentine resident Lodovico Guicciardini described as ‘the loveliest city in the world’. Well-known names from that age are the painters Quinten Metsys and Bruegel, the printer Plantijn, the humanists and scientists Lipsius, Mercator, Dodoens and Ortelius. In the second half of that century the city gradually became the focus of the politico-religious struggle between the Protestant North and Catholic Spain and as such it suffered a series of all-time lows including the Iconoclasm (1566), the Spanish Fury (1576) and finally the Fall of Antwerp (1585). After the fall the city again came under the rule of the Spanish King Philip II and the Northern Netherlands closed off the Scheldt. From an economic point of view this was a disaster. To make matters worse, it was not only the Protestants who fled the city but also the commercial and intellectual elite. Of the city’s 100,000 inhabitants in 1570, by 1590 no more than about 40,000 remained. Yet the city continued to flourish culturally until the mid- seventeenth century with painters like Rubens, Van Dyck, Jordaens and Teniers, the sculptor families Quellin and Verbrugghen,

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printers like Moretus, the renowned Antwerp harpsichord builders. There’s little cause for joy in the history of Antwerp between 1650 and the nineteenth century. The Scheldt remained closed to trafﬁc and the metropolis became a provincial town. Under Austrian rule (1715 - 1792) Joseph II tried to free the river by military force, but the plan backﬁred. In 1795, the French occupants succeeded in opening the river again, but this time the ships encountered an English blockade. This was hardly surprising since Napoleon thought of the Port of Antwerp as ‘a pistol aimed at the heart of England’. Whilst it is true that Antwerp owes the beginnings of today’s port to that French period (1792 - 1815), at the same time the city’s cultural heritage fell prey to art plundering and destruction on a scale rarely seen before. There were even plans to pull down the Cathedral.

left: Vlaeykensgang

After the fall of Napoleon at Waterloo (1815), a shortlived reuniﬁcation with the Northern Netherlands and an equally short period of prosperity followed, which ended Welcome in Antwerp

with the Belgian Revolution (1830) and once again the closure of the River Scheldt. It was reopened, this time deﬁnitively, in 1863. Then Antwerp’s third great hey-day could begin.

Sounds of the city | Butcher’s hall

Apart from interruptions during the two world wars, Antwerp experienced steady economic growth in the 20th Century. This gave rise to a new cultural high point and international prestige in 1993, the year Antwerp was nominated Cultural Capital of Europe: European recognition for a wealth of historical and contemporary aspects in which you too can share. Antwerp has something for everybody’s taste: •the Rubens’ city par excellence •the world diamond centre •a city of fashion designers and fashion trendsetters •a world port and City-on-the-River •the 1993 Cultural Capital of Europe •a bustling Burgundian city, convivial and chockful of atmosphere •a real shoppers’ paradise •a ﬁlm, concert and theatre city •a gallery of protected monuments and cityscapes •a city with family and child-friendly attractions •a welcoming and multicultural metropolis

Willem van Haecht (1593-1637): The Art Gallery of Cornelis van der Geest © Rubens’ House, Antwerp – Collections Management

Antwerp on the map Antwerp is the largest city in Flanders, the northern part of Belgium. Some 60% of the ten million Belgians are Flemings. They speak Dutch. Like their French and Germanspeaking compatriots they have their own parliament and government. The capital of Flanders is Brussels, also capi12

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tal of federal Belgium and the heart of Europe. Antwerp’s 470,913 inhabitants (2008) live in a territory which covers approximately 22,076 hectares. The city is located between latitude 51°13’16” and 4°23’60” eastern longitude. It has a moderate maritime climate. Welcome in Antwerp

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Welcome in Antwerp

2. Art Antwerp, a fascinating art room and the city of Rubens

ntwerp can rightfully pride itself on its rich, historic past. Through the centuries the city has managed to develop a rich and unique, valuable cultural heritage. The city’s museums and historic churches are treasuries in which many of these riches are preserved and on display. Take time to stop and admire the cityscapes, the protected monuments and the various statues as well as the Madonnas and other saints that grace Antwerp’s streets.

KMSKA - Royal Museum of Fine Arts

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If this is your first visit to Antwerp, you should take some time to discover the works of Rubens. Antwerp is the Master’s home base. His parents fled from Antwerp to Germany, where Peter Paul was born in 1577. Rubens was ten when his father died. His mother chose to return to Antwerp with three of her children. Rubens’ first works included copies of Holbein’s masterpieces: he was barely 13. During an eight year grand tour of Italy, with a short Spanish intermezzo, Rubens continued to define his art universe, only equalled by his love of words. Rubens eventually left us thousands of letters and notes. Rubens received many commissions from the Bill Gates, François Mitterrands and Kofi Annans of his time, but also enjoyed creating paintings for a chapel in Madrid, an abbey in Lille, a trader in Genoa or even a friend in Antwerp. His rapid rise to fame raised fears of a brain drain; as a privileged resident he barely paid any taxes. Rubens’ style is baroque: intelligent, complex, fascinating and surprising. His works can be viewed in glorious rooms

Statue of Rubens, Groenplaats

Art

Museums RUBENS’ HOUSE In 1610 Rubens bought the building on Wapper Street and enlarged it to provide a home and studio, which had all the style of a palazzo. It was here that he received scores of distinguished guests and that he developed his astonishing career.

Rubens’ House

in London, Madrid, Munich, Paris, St. Petersburg, Washington, Vienna and Antwerp. Rubens and Antwerp are inextricably linked as Warhol is with New York. His house and grave are in Antwerp. His statue commands the Groenplaats square. But don’t forget to visit the historic churches and the phenomenal “Raising of the Cross” and “Descent from The Cross” in the Cathedral of our Lady, the little-known Rubens Chapel in St. James’ Church (St. Jacobskerk), where the remains of Rubens and his family rest in a vault, the Carolus Borromeus Church, which Rubens designed and the beautiful series of paintings in St. Paul’s, where Rubens’ works are featured alongside the works of other Antwerp masters.

The Rubens’ House is a complex around an inner courtyard. The baroque portico between the courtyard and the FlemishItalian Renaissance garden was designed by the master himself. After Rubens died in 1640 the building changed hands several times. The city tried to buy the dilapidated building both in the 18th and the 19th Century but to no avail. In 1937 the city ﬁnally succeeded in doing so by expropriating what was now scarcely more than a ruin. Restoration followed.

P.P. Rubens, Self-portrait © Rubens’ House, Antwerp – Collections Management

The museum houses ten works by Rubens including his ‘Self-portrait’, ‘Adam and Eve in Paradise’, ‘Henry IV in the battle for Paris’ and a ‘portrait of Sir Anthony Van Dyck as a boy’. Many objets d’art and utensils are also on display, which either belonged to Rubens himself or date from his time, including a still life by Frans Snyders, ‘The Art Room of Cornelis van der Geest’ by Willem Van Haecht, ‘Mercury and Argos’ by Jacob Jordaens, an anonymous ‘portrait of Rubens’ second wife Hélène Fourment’, Antwerp cabinets and also the chair, which Rubens used as a dean of his guild. OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm). Closed on Mondays and on January 1st

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PLANTIN-MORETUS MUSEUM

Plantin-Moretus Museum

and 2nd, May 1st, Ascension Day, November 1st and 2nd, December 25th and 26th. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: 6,00 EUR p.p., 4,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more and 1,00 EUR p.p. for those aged 26 and less (includes audio guide, according to availability). Tickets include free admission to the Mayer van den Bergh Museum. Antwerp residents, schools, -19, 65+, disabled and their companion free. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Ground ﬂoor and garden only. ADDRESS: Wapper 9-11, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 201 15 55 - fax: +32 3 227 36 92 e-mail : rubenshuis@stad.antwerpen.be www.rubenshuis.be (Dutch, English)

The museum is located on the picturesque Vrijdagmarkt in the historic centre of the city. A real must see – and certainly not only restricted to visitors who have an interest in the development and the history of book publishing. Sightseeing tourists invariably put this museum at the top of their list of places to see in Antwerp. The Plantin-Moretus Museum is the continuation of the Officina Plantiniana, founded by Christoffel Plantin in 1555, as the first industrial printing works in history. Today it constitutes the only fully equipped printing works-publishing house, which dates back to the Renaissance and Baroque Period. In 2001 Unesco granted the old company, home archives and the oldest printing presses world heritage status. This magnificent patrician house, the unique typographical treasury and the resplendent book museum were added to the World Heritage List in 2002. It is here that the Masters of the Gulden Passer (The Golden Compass) lived and worked. Visitors can still admire the original interior of the house, decorated with tapestries, gilded leather walls, paintings and sculptures. The museum also gives an educational overview of the whole book production process from the 15th to the 18th Century. End your visit in one of the many libraries of the museum or take a breath of fresh air in one of the gardens of the inner courtyard.

Plantin-Moretus Museum

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ADMISSION: 6,00 EUR p.p., 4,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more and 1,00 EUR p.p. for those aged 26 and less. Antwerp residents, schools, -19, 65+, disabled persons and their companion free. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Ground ﬂoor only. ADDRESS: Vrijdagmarkt 22-23, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 221 14 50 - +32 3 232 24 55 fax: +32 3 221 14 71 e-mail: museum.plantin.moretus@stad.antwerpen.be www.museumplantinmoretus.be (Dutch, English) Painting of Jean Fouquet © Jean Fouquet, Mary and Jesus with Seraphim and Cherubim, KMSKA

KONINKLIJK MUSEUM VOOR SCHONE KUNSTEN (KMSKA) (ROYAL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS) ATTENTION! The KMSKA will be closing its doors for the renovation in 2010. During the works, the core collection shall be on display at MAS [Museum on the Stream]. After the renovation works, the KMSKA will reopen festively in 2012 with the blockbuster exhibition entitled “Rubenism”. The collection preserved at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp provides a representative overview of art production in our region between the 14th Century and the present day. The collection comprises works by Jan Van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Hans Memling, Quinten Metsys, Frans Floris and the Bruegel family, Jean Fouquet, Lucas Cranach, Titian, Peter Paul Rubens, Jacob Jordaens, Sir Anthony Van Dyck, Cornelis de Vos, Frans Snijders, Daniël Seghers, Frans Hals, Henri Leys, Nicaise De Keyser, Henri de Braekeleer, Jan Stobbaerts, James Ensor, Constantin Meunier, Eugène Laermans, Emile Claus, Rik Wouters, Jakob Smits, Jozef

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Peeters, George Minne, Constant Permeke, Gust de Smet, Frits van den Berghe, René Magritte, Paul Delvaux, Osip Zadkine, Lucio Fontana, Pierre Alechinsky, Karel Appel, Vic Gentils and Fred Bervoets. OPENING HOURS: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm), Sundays from 10 am – 6 pm (last admission at 5.30 pm). Closed on Mondays and on January 1st and 2nd, May 1st, Ascension Day and December 25th. ADMISSION: 6,00 EUR p.p., 4,00 EUR p.p. for students, for those aged 60 and over and groups of 15 persons or more and 1,00 EUR p.p. for those aged 26 and less. Free for visitors up to and including 18 years of age. Free admission on the last Wednesday of each month. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Audio guide featuring information about the most important works of art included (available in Dutch, French and English). An interactive multimedia programme “Uitgelicht/ingelicht” about Early Painting can be consulted for free. Free kidstour (Dutch audio guide for children 8-12). Wheelchair access? Yes The museum has a special entrance for disabled persons next to the Camu Café. ADDRESS: Leopold de Waelplaats, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 238 78 09 - fax: +32 3 248 08 10 e-mail: publiekswerking@kmska.be www.kmska.be (Dutch, French, English) Information & reservations guided tours: Plaatsnijderstraat 2, 2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 242 04 16 - fax: +32 3 248 08 10 e-mail: publiekswerking@kmska.be www.kmska.be (Dutch, French, English)

KMSKA - Royal Museum of Fine Arts

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will be featured. They tell the interesting tale of players, town musicians and archer’s guilds. But that’s not all: church and military music, opera and even the ambiance of café-chantants of the beginning of the 20th Century are part of the history of the sound of the city. Don’t expect a classic instrument museum, but a lively voyage to the world behind the music!

Museum Vleeshuis | City Sounds right: © Museum Vlees-huis | City Sounds

MUSEUM VLEESHUIS | CITY SOUNDS (BUTCHER’S HALL) 500 years ago Antwerp butchers commissioned an impressive guild house. Meat was cut in the cellar, sold on the ground floor, and the first floor served as a hall for meetings and celebrations. Nowadays the spectacular building with its red and white layers of brick and limestone is a museum. Six hundred years of music and dance in the city A city makes noise. Just open the window. But sometimes, just sometimes a beautiful, fragile sound will drown out the noise. Like a violet between the paving stones. For some time now the Vleeshuis has been cherishing these sounds of the city.

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm). Closed on Mondays and on January 1st and 2nd, May 1st, Ascension Day, November 1st and 2nd, December 25th and 26th. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: 5 EUR p.p., 3 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more and –26 . (Tickets sold until 4.30 pm). Antwerp residents, schools –19, +65, disabled persons and their companion free. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Ground ﬂoor only. ADDRESS: Vleeshouwersstraat 38-40, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 292 61 00 - fax: +32 3 292 61 29 e-mail: vleeshuis@stad.antwerpen.be www.museumvleeshuis.be (Dutch)

With its project City Sounds the Vleeshuis acquaints the visitor with every possible facet of city music. Imposing instruments, as well as prints, paintings and scale models 24

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HET MAS [MUSEUM AAN DE STROOM] Het nieuwe Museum aan de Stroom, kortweg MAS, is een nieuw, vernieuwend en ambitieus project in Antwerpen. Het museum verrijst op de Hanzestedenplaats, in het centrum van het Eilandje, op de plek waar stad en haven elkaar raken.

Tall Ships’ Race

De MAS-toren is ontworpen als een stapelhuis van 60 meter hoog, met duidelijke referenties naar de maritieme bedrijvigheid op het Eilandje van toen en nu. Op de gelijkvloerse verdieping bevinden zich een café en een museumshop. Op de tweede verdieping huist een zichtbaar depot. Vijf museumzalen zijn voorbehouden voor semipermanente opstellingen een één voor tijdelijke tentoonstellingen. Op de bovenste verdieping bevinden zich de panoramazaal en het restaurant met een terras dat een weidse blik biedt op stad en stroom. De museumverdiepingen – met telkens een wandelgalerij en een museumzaal – worden zo op elkaar gestapeld dat er in het MAS een spiraaltoren ontstaat. Reusachtige roltrappen brengen u naar de top. Ondertussen ziet u door de grote ramen van 6 meter hoog een steeds grootser panorama op stad, Schelde en haven. De ‘verticale’ wandelboulevard is toegankelijk voor iedereen, ook na de openingsuren van de museumzalen. Voor de MAS-toren strekt zich een groot museumplein uit.

verscheiden, wat leidt tot een grote en boeiende diversiteit aan wereldbeelden. Het MAS brengt dit verhaal van diversiteit, én dus ook het verhaal van de vele contacten tussen culturen. De ruggengraat vormen de collecties van het Nationaal Scheepvaartmuseum, het Volkskundemuseum, het Etnograﬁsch Museum, (deels van) het Museum Vleeshuis en de collectie havengebonden maritieme en industrieel-archeologische voorwerpen.

National Maritime Museum ‘Steen’

OPENING HOURS: Het MAS opent zijn deuren in 2010. Meer info op www.mas.be ADDRESS: Hanzestedenplaats 1, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 206 09 40 - fax: +32 3 206 03 60 e-mail: mas@stad.antwerpen.be www.mas.be (Dutch)

Het MAS vertelt het verhaal van de stad en haar bewoners, de stroom, de haven, en de wereld. Het focust op vragen over hoe mensen met hun omgeving omgaan en over hoe ze met elkaar omgaan. De antwoorden zijn zeer 26

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The collection concentrates on art of the Netherlands during the Gothic and Renaissance period, including a delightful series of Flemish primitives and one of the major collections of late Gothic sculptures in Belgium. Visitors can admire art ranging from Antiquity to the 18th Century. It is one of the few museums where you can travel through the history of western art, wing by wing.

Museum Mayer van den Bergh

MUSEUM MAYER VAN DEN BERGH For art and antiques lovers the Mayer van den Bergh Museum is the pearl in the crown of Antwerp museums. The collection gives an overview of almost all the arts and crafts with its substantial collection of paintings, sculptures, tapestries, drawings, stained glass windows and more. The more than 3,000 art objects once belonged to art collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh (+1901). In 1904 the collection was housed in a museum, built at the request of his mother, in 16th Century style. The reﬁned taste, the impressive knowledge and the keen eye of the collector enjoy a worldwide reputation. The collection includes masterpieces such as the ‘Dulle Griet’ or ‘Mad Meg’ by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, the ‘Christ and St. John Group’ and the ‘Breviary’ by Mayer van den Bergh; all are milestones in the history of art. This museum comprises exceptional works of great importance in almost all arts.

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The interior of the museum has a special attraction: small intimate rooms decorated with gilded leather, oak panelling and monumental mantelpieces create a warm and subdued mood. You almost feel as if the collector dreams of sharing his passion with you.

Museum Mayer van den Bergh

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5 pm. Closed on Mondays and on January 1st and 2nd, May 1st, Ascension Day, November 1st and 2nd, December 25th and 26th. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: 4,00 EUR p.p., 3,00 EUR p.p. groups of 15 persons or more and 1,00 EUR p.p. for those aged 26 and less. Antwerp residents, schools, -19, 65+, disabled persons and their companion free. Free entrance every last Wednesday of the month. Combination ticket with the Rubens’ House: 6,00 and 4,00 EUR p.p. respectively. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Partially accessible. ADDRESS: Lange Gasthuisstraat 19, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 232 42 37 - fax: +32 3 231 73 35 e-mail: museum.mayervandenbergh@stad.antwerpen.be www.museummayervandenbergh.be (Dutch, English)

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and old, individuals or groups, aims to familiarize the museum’s visitors with sculpture. You can walk around the park freely or follow a guided route along 37 works of art using an audio guide (Dutch, French, German, and English). A new catalogue and leaﬂet for visitors is published for every exhibition. You can also book a guide for group visits for 66,00 EUR (2 hours, max. 15 persons, Dutch, French, German, English). Every visitor can consult free publications on modern and contemporary art such as books, magazines, drawings and photos in the Documentation Centre. left: Open-air Museum for sculpture Middelheim

OPEN-AIR MUSEUM FOR SCULPTURE MIDDELHEIM There are about 300 modern and contemporary statues scattered in the 25 ha park known as the Middelheim Museum. Middelheim-hoog offers an overview of modern western sculpture, with sculptors like Auguste Rodin, Emile-Antoine Bourdelle, Pablo Gargallo and Giacomo Manzu. Since 1993, when Antwerp was named European Cultural Capital, contemporary art has been an important part of the museum. Go to Middelheim-laag where you can admire sculptures by Tony Cragg, Luciano Fabro, Matt Mullican, Juan Muñoz and Panamarenko. The museum also displays art by artists like Luc Deleu, Dan Graham and Mc Corkle. In 2006 the museum acquired works of art by John Körmeling and Honoré d’O.

OPENING HOURS: October - March 10 am – 5 pm; April and September 10 am – 7 pm; May and August 10 am – 8 pm; June and July 10 am – 9 pm. Last admission half an hour before closing time. Closed on Mondays and on January 1st and 2nd, May 1st, Ascension Day, November 1st and 2nd, December 25th and 26th. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: free. Audio guide 3,00 EUR. Wheelchair access ? Yes ADDRESS: Middelheimlaan 61 – 2020 Antwerp phone: +32 3 828 13 50 - fax: +32 3 825 28 35 e-mail: middelheimopenluchtmuseum@stad.antwerpen.be www.middelheimmuseum.be (Dutch, French, German, English)

Open-air Museum for sculpture Middelheim

The Middelheim Museum organizes two exhibitions per year. Visitors can also participate in one of many workshops or guided tours. A custom programme for young 32

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MUHKA (MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART OF ANTWERP) This museum was housed in a converted grain silo and adjoining warehouse in 1987. The renovation and change of use of the buildings was very much in keeping with the renewed attention for the “Zuid” district of the City, one of the most exciting districts in Antwerp with regard to urban planning.

MuHKA

The MUHKA’s 4,000 square metres of exhibition space is devoted to art from 1970 to the present day. The building and the collection, which of course is constantly being added to, belong to the Flemish Community. Moreover, the museum has the Matta-Clark Foundation collection in its possession for an indeterminate period of time, which consists of more than 150 works by Belgian and international artists. The MuHKA organizes four big exhibitions every year, in addition to a cycle of presentations of the museum collection. OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5 pm. Closed on Mondays and on January 1st, May 1st, Ascension Day, December 25th. ADMISSION: 6,00 EUR p.p., 4,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 10 persons, Antwerp residents, disabled persons and their companion. 1,00 EUR p.p. for those aged 26 and less. Children younger than 12, friends of the MUHKA and ICOM members free. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Leuvenstraat 32, 2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 260 99 99 - fax: +32 3 216 24 86 e-mail: info@muhka.be www.muhka.be (Dutch, French, English)

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DIAMANTMUSEUM PROVINCIE ANTWERPEN (DIAMOND MUSEUM PROVINCE OF ANTWERP) Fascinating, brilliant and imbued with a centuries-old mystique: that is the world of diamonds. The museum offers visitors an interactive experience, displays magical collections pieces and shows the technology used today to produce the world’s most coveted valuable. The focus lies on the story of the Diamond, a story of ordinary people and special occasions that are embedded in the diamond history of the Province of Antwerp: diamond cutting and diamond craftsmanship in the Antwerp Kempen, retail and sales in Antwerp.

Diamondmuseum © Diamantmuseum Antwerp

Next to this Diamond story, the Diamond Museum also displays a number of unique diamond pieces, ranging from historic diamond jewels, like a replica of the British crown jewels with two of the world’s biggest diamonds (the Queen’s Crown with the Koh-I-Noor and the Royal Sceptre with the Cullinan I, also referred to as the Great Star of Africa) to contemporary jewels including a second version of the diamond “A” brooch that was given to former president Clinton in 2003 and the famous ECC tennis racket, ﬁrst prize in the former European Community Championship. This impressive collection is displayed in 3 well-secured treasuries. From Monday to Friday you can see a diamond cutter at work in a part of the former diamond cutter’s workshop De Samenwerkende Maatschappij ‘De Eendracht’. This was founded in Borgerhout in 1901. At that time the steam driven Art

workshop was one of the most modern workshops in the region.

Diamondmuseum

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5.30 pm (Tickets are being sold until 5 pm). Closed on Wednesday (except on bank holidays on Wednesday), December 25th and 26th and during the month of January. ADMISSION: 6,00 EUR p.p., 4,00 EUR p.p. for those aged 60 and over, between 12 and 26, disabled persons, and groups of 15 persons or more. Children under 12 free. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Special combination ticket Diamond Museum-Zoo available. Audio guide available in several languages (included in the price of admission); please notify at least 1 month ahead when visiting as a group. A guided visit is possible during exhibitions, in combination with a diamond walk with a certiﬁed city guide. Please reserve with Antwerp Tourisme & Congress. Wheelchair access? Yes Special route for blind and partially sighted people: FEELing with DIAMOND ADDRESS: Koningin Astridplein 19-23, BE-2018 Antwerp phone: +32 3 202 48 90 - fax: +32 3 202 48 98 e-mail: info@diamant.provant.be www.diamantmuseum.be (Dutch)

MOMU (FASHION MUSEUM PROVINCE OF ANTWERP) The Fashion Museum opened its doors in September 2002. The MoMu collection features a very diverse collection of clothing, lace, embroidery, fabrics and tools for artisan textile processing. 36

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MoMu

Every year the MoMu organises two thematic exhibitions, with a side programme consisting of workshops, guided tours, lectures and debates. The museum aims to draw out the visitor, through a surprising use of space or a different approach of the exhibition presentation. The starting point is the creation of purely esthetical pleasure and a visionary and sociological story. On the ground ﬂoor in the gallery the MoMu organises three or four smaller exhibitions, which respond to current events. The collection of the MoMu library consists of some 15,000 books, catalogues, magazines and documentation on fashion, fashion designers, clothing, ethnic costumes, handwork, textile art, etc. The museum pursues a dynamic and changing exhibition policy and wants to create a context for fashion and clothes behaviour. For the MoMu fashion means more than the sum of clothing and textile.

Art

MoMu

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 6 pm and every ﬁrst Thursday from 10 am – 9 pm. Closed on Mondays, January 1st and December 25th. The museum also closes during the construction and dismantling of exhibitions. ADMISSION: 6,00 EUR p.p., 4,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more, Students, 60+ and 1,00 EUR p.p. for those aged 26 and less. Children -12, blind persons and companions of disabled persons free. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Nationalestraat 28, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 470 27 70 - fax: +32 3 470 27 71 Reservations of guides or workshops: +32 3 470 27 74 e-mail: info@momu.be www.momu.be (Dutch, French, German, English)

FOTOMUSEUM PROVINCIE ANTWERPEN (FOTOMUSEUM PROVINCE OF ANTWERP) The renewed FotoMuseum Provincie Antwerpen opened its doors in March 2004. The museum houses one of the most important collections in Europe, featuring both equipment and documents. After the museum had been closed for almost 3 years, director-curator Christoph Ruys was happy to launch a new building and a new policy, which is characterized by important and obvious museum activities for a museum (acquisition, study, filing and exhibit), as well as special initiatives like portfolio view days, experts days, film showings, the FotoMuseum Magazine and the biennial auction, which all are part of the permanent activities on offer. In the autumn of 2005 the FotoMuseum opened its newest exhibition room, dedicated to exhibitions that unite photography, film and new media. In doing so the FotoMuseum 38

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Fotomuseum

not only offers an insight into the past (collection presentation) and present (thematic and monographic exhibitions), but also into the future! OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 6 pm. Closed on Mondays, December 25th and 26th and January 1st and 2nd. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: 6,00 EUR p.p., 4,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more, students and disabled persons. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Waalse kaai 47, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 242 93 00 - fax: +32 3 242 93 10 e-mail: info@fotograﬁe.provant.be www.fotomuseum.be (Dutch, French, partially in German, English)

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ZILVERMUSEUM STERCKSHOF (SILVER MUSEUM STERCKSHOF PROVINCE OF ANTWERP)

Silvermuseum Sterckshof

The museum can be found in the renovated 16th Century Sterckshof castle, in the beautiful Rivierenhof Park in Deurne. Visitors can learn more about the importance of silver, silver mining and the techniques used to process this precious metal (1st floor). The museum also features illustrations of various art styles, showpieces, ecclesiastical silverware and the use of silverware in the bedroom. The ground floor is where the theme rooms with regard to food and drink, smoking and writing are located, as well as the salon. The most exceptional donation is undoubtedly the Pierre Lunden bequest, with 96 pieces of silver dating back to the 17th and 18th Century and several pieces of Chinese porcelain. Head to the silver workshop to find out more about how silver is polished or to admire objects by young silversmiths. In the library with reading room, visitors can peruse 22,000 books on applied arts. The museum regularly organizes thematic exhibitions and days. OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5.30 pm. Closed on Mondays, December 25th and 26th, January 1st and 2nd. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: free, except during special exhibitions. Guided group tours on appointment. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Hooftvunderlei 160 (entrance: Cornelissenlaan) – 2100 Deurne phone: +32 3 360 52 52 - fax: +32 3 360 52 53 e-mail: info@zilvermuseum.be www.zilvermuseum.be (Dutch)

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MAAGDENHUIS (MAIDENS’ HOUSE) This museum is dedicated to the history of the care of foundlings and orphans. Traces of this can be seen in the small objects, such as the needlework patterns on tulle, the samplers with cross stitching, the clothes and signs of foundlings. But also in a mock-up of the foundling drawer (in the Rochusstraat). The museum collections also consist of archives (12th – 16th Century), furniture (15th – 18th Century), Antwerp plateel or earthenware (the precursor to Delft earthenware), including a series of polychrome porridge bowls (16th Century), paintings (15th – 17th Century) and sculptures (16th – 18th Century), including the oak statue of Houten Clara (Wooden Clara), which became well-known as it was featured in a short story by Belgian author Hendrik Conscience.

Maidens’ House

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5 pm (week), 1 pm – 5 pm (weekends), last admission at 4.30 pm. Tickets sold until 4.30 pm. Closed on Tuesdays and public holidays. ADMISSION: 3,00 EUR p.p., 2,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more. Schools, -18, 65+ and disabled persons and their companion free. A guided visit costs 60,00 EUR, aanvragen op tel : +32 3 226 56 20. Groups can combine a visit with a visit of the Elzenveld sociocultural congress centre. ADDRESS: Lange Gasthuisstraat 33, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 223 56 20 - fax: +32 3 223 53 31 e-mail: maagdenhuismuseum@ocmw.antwerpen.be

Art

ROCKOX HUIS (THE ROCKOXHOUSE) This museum was once the home of the seventeenth-century mayor Nicolaas Rockox, an art collector and also a friend of Rubens. Purchased by the KBC Bank in 1970, the house was refurbished according to the original inventory drawn up on Rockox’ death. The collection has since been added to and comprises works by Rubens, Van Dyck, Jordaens, Teniers, Bruegel, Metsys and many others.

Rockoxhouse

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5 pm. Closed on Mondays and on January 1st and 2nd, May 1st, Ascension Day, November 1st and 2nd, December 25th and 26th. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: 2,50 EUR p.p., 1,25 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more and those aged under 26. Students, -19, those aged 60 and over, disabled persons, KBC clients free. Free admission every last Wednesday of the month. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Keizerstraat 10-12, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 201 92 50 - fax: +32 3 201 92 51 e-mail: hildegard.vandevelde@kbc.be www.rockoxhuis.be (Dutch, French, English)

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AMVC-LETTERENHUIS (ARCHIVE AND MUSEUM FOR FLEMISH CULTURAL LIFE) The Archive and Museum for Flemish Cultural Life (AMVC) collects and preserves the manuscripts, letters, documents and images of Flemish authors. Visitors can (re)discover Flemish Literature of the 19th and 20th Century. The novels of Hendrik Conscience constitute the beginning of a story, which ends with the work of contemporary authors. Manuscripts and letters are featured of among others Cyriel Buysse, Guido Gezelle, Karel van de Woestijne, Paul van Ostaijen, Stijn Streuvels, Willem Elsschot, Louis Paul Boon, Ivo Michiels, Hugo Claus and Tom Lanoye. Photos, painted and sculpted portraits, ﬁlm fragments and sound recordings revive the literary heritage of Flanders. Visitors can use the multimedia applications to search for additional information about authors and literary movements.

Archive and Museum of Flemisch Cultural Life

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am – 5 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm). Closed on Mondays, January 1st and 2nd, May 1st, Ascension Day, November 1st and 2nd, December 25th and 26th. Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. ADMISSION: 3,00 EUR p.p., 2,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 15 persons or more and -26. Antwerp residents, schools, -19, +65, disabled persons and their companion free. Prices may vary during exhibitions. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Minderbroedersstraat 22, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 222 93 20 - fax: +32 3 222 93 21 e-mail: amvc.letterenhuis@stad.antwerpen.be www.letterenhuis.be (Dutch, French, German, English)

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Historical churches ONZE-LIEVE-VROUWEKATHEDRAAL (CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY)

Museum of Folklore

The chapel, which stood here in the 12th Century, was replaced twice until it became a real church. Work on the present Cathedral started in about 1352 around this parish church. The last vestiges of the original church were demolished in 1481. After 169 years of building the north tower rose up, like lacework in stone, 123 metres high above Brabant and Flanders. The largest Gothic construction in the Netherlands was complete. Yet this parish church did not quite satisfy the aspirations of the powerful and opulent city of Antwerp. Even in the year of its completion (1521) Emperor Charles V laid the first stone for a gigantic extension. However, it amounted to little more than that, not least because work was brought to a standstill by a severe fire in the nave (1533). Today little remains of the original furnishings. The church – which became a cathedral in 1559 - suffered not only from the fire but also from repeated plundering: the Iconoclasm (1566), Calvinist purging (1581) and looting in the French period (from 1794). And yet the Cathedral is still an enormous treasure chamber, preserving works like the ‘Raising of the Cross’ and the ‘Descent from the Cross’ by Rubens. Moreover, the architecture of the seven-aisled church has again been restored to its full splendour after twenty years of restoration work.

Cathedral of Our Lady

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 10 am – 5 pm, Saturdays 10 am – 3 pm, Sundays and religious holidays 44

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1 pm – 4 pm, the day before a religious holiday 10 am – 3 pm. Closed for visits during ecclesiastical services. ADMISSION: 4,00 EUR p.p., 2,00 EUR p.p. for groups of 20 persons or more, Students, 60+ and disabled persons. Children under 12 free. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Handschoenmarkt, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 213 99 51 - fax: +32 3 231 86 17 e-mail: info@dekathedraal.be www.dekathedraal.be (Dutch, French, German, English) www.mkaweb.be (Dutch, French, German, English) Cathedral of Our Lady

SINT-PAULUSKERK (ST. PAUL’S CHURCH) St. Paul’s Church was originally part of a vast Dominican cloister. It was consecrated in 1571 as a replacement for a previous house of worship. But disaster struck here on several occasions, such as the fire of 1679. Afterwards, a new, baroque tower was built. The paintings were plundered in the French period but restituted in 1815. Another fire, in 1968, also caused great damage. On that occasion, the parishioners risked their lives to save the works of art from the fire. The church has now been restored and visitors can once again admire its magnificent interior: more than 50 paintings, more than 200 sculptures, splendid baroque altars and carved church furnishings which are some of the most beautiful in the world. Several Antwerp masters are represented here: Rubens, Van Dyck, Jordaens, Teniers, Francken, De Vos, Quellin, Kerricx, Verbruggen, Van Baurscheit, Van Mildert, and many others. The organ dates from the 17th Century but has repeatedly been restored and enlarged. It is one of the

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most important in the country. Next to the church (corner Veemarkt-Zwartzustersstraat) there is an 18th-century Calvary which is well worth visiting. In the buildings to the south of the church, visitors will discover a new, resplendent treasury, including silverware, gold and of course Antwerp diamonds.

left: St. Paul’s Church right: St. Paul’s Church , Calvary

OPENING HOURS: daily from 2 pm – 5 pm (April 1st through October 31st). Closed for tourist visits during religious services. ADMISSION: free. Treasury: 1,00 EUR Wheelchair access ? Yes ADDRESS: Entrance via Veemarkt 14, BE-2000 Antwerp phone and fax: +32 3 232 32 67 e-mail: sint-pauluskerk@topa.be www.topa.be (Dutch, French, German, English, Spanish, Italian) www.mkaweb.be (Dutch, French, German, English)

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pulpit dating from 1821, a very ﬁne epitaph to the memory of Mary Queen of Scots and a representation of Peter which is generally regarded as Artus Quellin the Elder’s most valuable work of art.

left: St. Andrew’s Church

SINT-ANDRIESKERK (ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH) Saxon Augustinian monks were responsible for founding this church, which was originally intended as a monastery church. It was consecrated as a parish church in 1529. In terms of style, it is late Gothic, while the super-structure is late baroque. The church was besieged on several occasions over the centuries, as for instance during the Iconoclasm, the French Revolution and the many wars with their countless bombardments. The remarkable church tower suffered particularly badly. The church underwent thorough restoration between 1970 and 1975. St. Andrew’s Church (Sint-Andrieskerk) houses scores of art treasures and other interesting sights, including its stained glass windows and a station of the cross consisting of fourteen large paintings. Of particular interest are the seventeenth-century monumental high altar originating from St. Bernard’s Abbey in Hemiksem, a unique and precious reliquary of the XXXVI Saints, the most popular Antwerp

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OPENING HOURS: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 9 am - noon (from April 15th until October 31st 2 pm – 5 pm). Free guided visits for individual visitors on Sundays (at 3 pm, from April 15th until October 31st). Closed for visits during ecclesiastical services. ADMISSION: free. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Sint-Andriesstraat 5, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 232 03 84 - +32 233 42 63 e-mail: sint-andrieskerk@topa.be www.topa.be (Dutch, French, German, English, Spanish, Italian) www.mkaweb.be (Dutch, French, German, English)

St. James’ Church

SINT-JACOKBSKERK (ST. JAMES’ CHURCH) It is the tomb of the Prince of Painting, Pieter Paul Rubens, that attracts most visitors to this church. But there is much more besides that, for St. James’ Church is sumptuously decorated. The parish could certainly afford such opulence when the church was built (1491 - 1656) and the area inhabited by the upper middle classes, merchants and members of the aristocracy. They wanted to display their wealth by building a tower which was higher than that of the Cathedral. Hence the imposing base. However, that demonstration of rivalry ceased after 55 metres for ﬁnancial reasons. The parishioners managed to lavish their wealth with more success on the inside of the church. Here more than one Art

St. James’ Church

hundred sorts of marble are to be found, which according to the eighteenth-century prefect from the Vatican, Cardinal Garampi, ‘could scarcely have been worked more skilfully’. The walls are hung with works by all the great artists of the city. The Church has twenty-three altars. Rubens’ tomb lies behind the main altar in the Chapel of Our Lady. The painting of ‘Our Lady surrounded by Saints’ was painted by the artist himself for his memorial. OPENING HOURS: daily from 2 pm – 5 pm (April 1st until October 31st). Closed on Tuesdays. Closed for tourist visits during religious services. ADMISSION: 2,00 EUR p.p., 1,50 EUR for groups of 20 persons or more. Children under 12 and disabled persons free. Guided visits available for groups. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Lange Nieuwstraat 73-75, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 225 04 14 e-mail: sint-jacobskerk@topa.be

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www.topa.be (Dutch, French, German, English, Spanish, Italian) www.mkaweb.be (Dutch, French, German, English) www.jacobus-antverpiae.be

St. Carolus Borromeus Church

SINT-CAROLUS BORROMEUSKERK (ST. CAROLUS BORROMEUS CHURCH) This typical baroque church was built by the Jesuits between 1615 and 1621. Rubens played an important part in the decoration of the façade and the pinnacle of the tower but especially of the interior. However, thirty-nine ceiling paintings, the work of his studio, were lost in a ﬁre in 1718. Most of the original marble was also destroyed. But the apse of the main altar and the Mary Chapel were spared and still convey an impression of the church’s former splendour which, in the light of the Counter-Reformation, was intended to revive the faith of the faithful, but mainly to bring back the backsliders. Art

St. Carolus Borromeus Church

The present interior dates from 1721 and was created under the direction of Jan Pieter van Baurscheit the Elder in cooperation with Michiel van der Voort. They built the pulpit and the splendid casing for the Dillens-Delhay organ, and the confessional boxes and panelling. There are also sculptures by Andries de Nole and other sculptors. Above the altar a single painting is suspended that can be changed as the liturgical year progresses. An original mechanism which is still in working order makes it possible to change the paintings (3 in total). An impressive spectacle. OPENING HOURS: Mondays to Saturdays 10 am - 12.30 pm and 2 pm – 5 pm. Lace room only on Wednesdays between 10 am - noon and 2 pm – 4 pm. Artists’ mass with musical accompaniment on Sundays and holidays at 11.30 am. Closed for tourist visits during religious services. ADMISSION: free Wheelchair access? Yes

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Hendrik Conscienceplein

ADDRESS: Hendrik Conscienceplein 6, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 231 37 51 - fax : +32 3 289 41 53 e-mail: s.carolus@skynet.be www.topa.be (Dutch, French, German, English, Spanish, Italian) www.mkaweb.be (Dutch, French, German, English) Art

3. Diamonds Antwerp, diamond centre of the world

ntwerp has a long and magniﬁcent tradition as a diamond city. Since the 15th Century the city has played an important role in the diamond trade and industry. Today it is the most important diamond trade centre in the world and covers one square kilometre in the city. More than 40% of industrial diamonds, 85% of rough diamonds and 50% of the world’s cut diamonds are traded here, representing an annual turnover of 39 billion USD. The diamond sector accounts for 8% of all Belgian exports, which means the sector is an important economic mainstay and ambassador for the country. The diamond district is located near Central station. A unique infrastructure has become the home to 1,500 diamond companies and four diamond exchanges. The offer is huge and ﬁerce competition makes for razor-sharp prices.

Diamond district

Thousands of Antwerp diamond workers actively work on a daily basis to uphold the reputation of the international quality label ‘Cut in Antwerp’. A constructive vision of the future, backed by ﬁve centuries of tradition, a thorough professional training and state-of-the-art applied research vouch for the high level of quality.

HRDAwards2001: Jewel of Westerman Monique © De Wit-Cerstiaens

The international character of the Antwerp diamond district is a paragon of universal hospitality and cultural melting-pot. Antwerp is one of the world’s great artistic, 54

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Diamonds

the import and export of diamonds. Visitors who are interested in seeing highly-skilled craftsmen bring out the colour and light in a stone and turn it into a diamond, must visit the largest diamond museum in the world, where the history, trade and craft are explained and the fabulous end products can be admired (see: Diamond Museum Province of Antwerp).

DIAMONDLAND SHOWROOM Lodewijk van Bercken

historic and tourist centres and the diamond world can take some of the credit for this image. Antwerp is home to the Indian and Jewish communities, but also to many Lebanese and Armenians. Since the eighties there has been a large inﬂux of people from Asian and African countries. The diamond world is a multiracial mosaic of cultures.

ANTWERP CITY OF JEWELS The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) is the official representative and mouthpiece of Antwerp’s diamond trade and industry. The DHC is responsible for the worldwide promotion of Antwerp World Diamond Centre. It issues the famous AWDC Diamond Certificates and certifies ‘cut diamonds’ and describes each stone based on the 4 Cs: Carat, Colour, Clarity and Cut. The HRD certificate has become one of the leading labels for quality certification of diamonds worldwide and accompanies diamonds sold all over the world. The AWDC also houses the Diamond Office, the official diamond customs office for 56

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1000 m2 diamond showroom. Diamond setters and cutters can be seen at work. Free guided visits are scheduled daily at 11 hrs. Free 15 minute tours for groups, upon reservation, in different languages.

Diamondland

OPENING HOURS: Mondays through Saturdays 9.30 am – 5.30 pm. ADMISSION: free Wheelchair access? No ADDRESS: Appelmansstraat 33a, BE-2018 Antwerp phone: +32 3 229 29 90 - fax: +32 3 229 29 99 e-mail: info@diamondland.be www.diamondland.be (Dutch, French, German, English, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Russian)

ANTWERP DIAMOND JEWELLERS ASSOCIATION (ADJA) The ADJA is an organisation, which groups a number of bona ﬁde quality jewellers under the auspices of the City of Antwerp. These jewellers often have been present in the city for decades and demonstrate their skills on a daily basis: Diamonds

Diamond Cutting Establishment

Diamondland, Appelmansstraat 33a, BE-2018 Antwerp, phone: +32 3 229 29 90 Joaillerie du centre, Vestingstraat 14, BE-2018 Antwerp, phone: +32 3 233 30 10 Katz Jewellers, Appelmansstraat 19, BE-2018 Antwerp, phone: +32 3 231 97 80 Philippe-Harold, Appelmansstraat 13 A7, BE-2018 Antwerp, phone:+32 3 233 36 32 Slaets Juwelier, De Keyserlei 46-48, BE-2018 Antwerp, phone: +32 3 213 50 80 ADDRESS: ADJA Hoveniersstraat 22, BE-2018 Antwerp phone: +32 3 222 05 45 e-mail: info@adja.be www.ADJA.be (English)

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ÂŠ Diamondland

Diamonds

4. Fashion Antwerp, city of fashion makers

ntwerp has become one of the most important European trendsetters in the fashion world. Belgian designers that have scored internationally have artistic roots in Antwerp. The driving force behind the Antwerp fashion scene continues to be the Fashion Department of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. As a fashion city Antwerp owes its reputation to the pioneers of the fashion movement, the so-called ‘Antwerp Six’: Walter Van Beirendonck, Ann Demeulemeester, Dries Van Noten, Dirk Van Saene, Dirk Bikkembergs and Marina Yee travelled to London and Paris together in the eighties as well as Martin Margiela (the seventh). Together they conquered the fashion world with their very distinct vision of fashion.

Walter Van Beirendonck

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In the wake of this inspirational movement a new generation of designers entered the ﬁeld in the Nineties: Lieve Van Gorp, Anna Heylen, Stephan Schneider, Wim Neels and Christophe Broich. Ever since then the movement has grown. Raf Simons, Veronique Branquinho, A.F. Vandevorst, Jurgi Persoons, Angelo Figus, Bernhard Willhelm, Bruno Pieters, Tim Van Steenbergen, Anke Loh, Dirk Schönberger, Marjolijn Van den Heuvel, Christian Wijnants, Haider Ackermann, Erik Verdonck, Tom Notte and Bart Vandebosch for Les Hommes are all designers who have studied in Antwerp and still have an atelier, show room or store in Antwerp.

Fashion show, fashion departement of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts

Fashion

The high point of the Antwerp fashion season is the yearly fashion show of the Antwerp Academy, which draws 6,000 visitors. And it’s not just the ordinary spectators who attend because of the unique atmosphere of this show. Journalists from all over the world – France, the UK, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, the US, Japan and Australia – come to judge and admire the newest collections of the Academy’s students. Since 2002 the fashionable city of Antwerp also has its own fashion centre: the Modenatie. In this unique building in the historical centre of Antwerp the Flanders Fashion Institute, the new Fashion Museum (see: MoMu), the Antwerp Fashion Academy, an artistic book store and a brasserie have all found a new home. During the ﬁrst year the much-discussed exhibitions at the MoMu drew an estimated 10,000 visitors and the Forum on the ground ﬂoor provides a platform for the work of fashion students, young designers and photographers with presentations, video projections and exhibitions.

MoMu

Antwerp unmistakably has positioned itself as a unique fashion city. The dynamic of this international reputation has made Antwerp the place to be for anyone who likes beautiful and bountiful things in life.

Fashion show, fashion departement of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts

The guide to Antwerp fashion walks can be purchased from Antwerp Tourism & Congress.

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Fashion

5. Water Antwerp, city on the river

ntwerp owes its very existence and its prosperity to the water. The port is inextricably linked with the city and gives it its cosmopolitan character. Anyone who visits the city should at least try to catch a glimpse of this mighty port, with its sea giants, drawbridges and round-the-clock activity. When you’ve seen the port, you will immediately understand why Antwerp has been referred to as a metropolis for centuries. The Port of Antwerp is the second largest port in Europe, is one of the ten largest ports worldwide and also the most productive. A dense network of rivers and canals, roads and railways ensures an easy connection to the European hinterland. Today the Antwerp Port covers the area north of the city and stretches out over some 13,500 ha. You can discover the area by boat or by car. For those who like to use their own car, Antwerp Tourism & Congress has developed the “Port Route” brochure. The signposted route reduces your chances of getting lost on the 350 kms of roads in the Antwerp port. The Port Route itself takes you along a route of 70 kms on a voyage through 1,000 years of port history. The route starts at the medieval Steen fortress and runs along the 19th Century port and the most modern installations.

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Water

CRUISE DESTINATION Besides being an industrial port Antwerp is also one of the fastest growing cultural cruise destinations in Europe. Modern cruise ships moor in the historic city centre, where a brand new cruise terminal welcomes the passengers. At the height of the Zuid walking terrace at Quay 20 you can often admire huge modern cruise ships. Get a taste of the typical atmosphere of the Antwerp waterfront from the Noord walking terrace along the main entrance of the Steen fortress. Those visitors who take a walk along the river quays will notice a lot of new buildings. Contemporary architecture along the quays often refers to the maritime aspect of the city – Antwerp is very clearly facing the water again. At sunset the colours of the Scheldt change. The signals on the water, the lights of the ships and the port installations make for a surprisingly enchanting spectacle.

MARINAS Antwerp has a second yacht marina, besides the marina on the Left Bank of the River Scheldt, on the Right Bank. The project is part of the renovation of the port site ‘het Eilandje’. The new location offers 350 moorings within walking distance of the city centre. This marina aims to be the mooring place of choice for passing boats and for the growing number of boat tourists, who want to visit a number of attractions in a short period of time.

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Marina Antwerpen Willemdok (JAW) Godefriduskaai 99, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 231 50 66 - fax: +32 3 232 46 01 e-mail: jaw@pandora.be www.jachthaven-antwerpen.be (Dutch) Marina Antwerpen Linkeroever (JAL) Thonetlaan 133, BE-2050 Antwerp phone Port: +32 3 219 08 95 - fax : +32 3 211 08 14 e-mail: jachthaven_linkeroever@skynet.be www.jachthaven-antwerpen.be (Dutch)

THE POLDER VILLAGE OF LILLO This village is part of the northern districts of the city. The original old ﬁshing port and the military forts have been preserved. A visit to the Polder Museum feels like a step back in time. Visitors will get a precise overview of life, superstition and the working conditions of the Antwerp polder residents. A free of charge ferry service is operated from Doel (from Easter until the end of September, several times a day on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays). The walking guide ‘t Eilandje and the Port Route are for sale at Antwerp Tourism & Congress.

Water

Yacht marina Willemdok

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Water

6. Walking & Out and about

s the largest Flemish city, the Antwerp metropolis is a fascinating mix of colourful little neighbourhoods, popular districts and tourist zones. Antwerp is a pedestrian-friendly city. Some 20 percent of the historic city centre is trafﬁc free and during the many summer festivities pedestrians are given absolute priority. So put on your walking shoes and enjoy this metropolis of human proportions!

CENTRE

Main Square

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On the Grote Markt, or main square, Brabo welcomes you into the atmosphere of a world city from the 16th and 17th Centuries. The proud guild houses with their stepped gables and gold emblematic figures make sure of that; these examples of high-rise building in the days of yore were intended to flaunt the power and wealth of the guilds. A number of those buildings are 19th-century reconstructions based on old paintings of the Grote Markt of which there are many. So like Brabo, the guild houses reflect a romantic preference for a glorious past of prosperity and freedom. Today the Grote Markt is still a lively centre with numerous pleasant indoor and outdoor cafés and restaurants. The star attraction is of course the Town Hall. It was constructed between 1561 and 1565 under the direction of the architect Cornelis II Floris de Vriendt and with the cooperation of (amongst others) the Italian Nicolo Scarini - hence the ‘Flemish-Italian renaissance style’, otherwise called the ‘Floris style’. It was a sensational new departure for the 16th-century Netherlands and it served as a model as far afield as Scandinavia. Walking & Out and about

right: Hendrik Conscienceplein

In 1576, during the Spanish Fury, the mutinous Spanish soldiers set light to the building. But by 1579 it had been rebuilt. Originally the Town Hall had an open inner courtyard. It was covered when the building underwent thorough renovation in the 19th century. The present-day interior with its many painted wall panels dates largely from that period. One step inside the Vlaeykensgang and you are in another era, another world even. The sounds of the modern city cannot even penetrate this jumble of alleyways. Those in the know make a beeline for this corner of the city when the carillon is playing. Another such oasis is the Hendrik Conscienceplein, where the city embraces and protects you from the metropolis’ hubbub. The triumphant baroque façade of St. Carolus Borromeus Church blends harmoniously with the digniﬁed classical façade of the Municipal Library, guarded by the 19th-century Flemish writer who gave the square its name. The Old Exchange in the Hofstraat dates from 1515 and replaced an even older exchange. The gallery around the

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inner courtyard reveals Italian architectural influences but the place where the Antwerp merchants engaged in trade served as a model for the physical planning concept. It was here that modern exchange activities originated. Antwerp was then one of the most important financial-economic centres in the world, which explains why a new and very large Commodity Exchange was constructed in the Twaalfmaandenstraat in 1531: ‘the Mother of all exchanges’, which served as a model for the Amsterdam, London, Lille and other exchanges. The building burnt down in 1581 and was rebuilt two years later. In 1856 that exchange was also destroyed by fire. The present construction dates from 1872 but, with the exception of the roof, it is still based on the original plan.

Vlaeykensgang

The Meir is Antwerp’s most famous shopping and pedestrian street. But remember to keep an eye open as well for what remains of the 19th century eclectic façades and for monuments like the former Royal Palace and the Osterriethhuis. And of course you cannot possibly ignore the ‘Boerentoren’. This 97-metre-high tower block was completed in 1932 and was then the ﬁrst sky scraper on the European mainland. After a walk along the Meir, stop for a break at one of the street cafés on the De Keyserlei. And take a look inside Central Station. This monumental ‘railway cathedral’ with its enormous domed ticket hall was built 100 years ago and is one of the ﬁnest stations in Europe.

THE AMBIANCE OF THE ZUID The Antwerp ‘Zuid’ district has become the mecca of the Flemish cultural world. As was the case in Amsterdam, the Walking & Out and about

special ambiance of the neighbourhood attracted artists like a magnet. Many authors, poets and actors have lived or live within a one-kilometre radius of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. If you walk through the neighbourhood on a sunny day, you will understand why.

Five Continents, ’t Zuid

If you like architecture you must visit an area of the city located away from the old centre. Take advantage of a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, the MUHKA or the FotoMuseum to explore the ‘Zuid’ neighbourhood. The people of Antwerp sometimes call this area ‘little Paris’ because of the way it was laid out: a star-shaped street pattern with many squares and ﬁne perspectives. This area also contains lovely art nouveau buildings, classical streets and monuments such as the Waterpoort (archway) and the Zuiderpershuis (pump house).

Zurenborg

art nouveau group of buildings also appears on the extensive list of protected monuments in Antwerp.

STATELY ZURENBORG The Art Nouveau architectural style is mainly concentrated on the Zuid. In 1901 the construction of the former Liberal Party community centre Help U Zelve was a revolutionary feat (Volksstraat 40, by the architectural duo Jan Van Asperen and Emile Van Averbeke). Currently the building belongs to the Rudolf Steiner schools. This gem in stone, wrought iron and mosaic became a listed building in 1974 and was awarded the Europea Nostra Prize in 1995. Another splendid example from the same year is the “Five Continents” complex, better known as ’t Bootje, by Frans Smet-Verhas (corner of Schildersstraat and Plaatsnijdersstraat). This remarkable façade with its projecting stern of a ship is a constant reminder of the man who commissioned it, P. Poels. Mr. Poels was the head of a thriving shipyard, which repaired wooden boats. This 74

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Antwerp has a lot of beautiful 19th Century and early 20th Century architecture on offer. In various parts of the city walkers will be able to discover a concentration of large town houses: in the Leopold borough around Belgiëlei, the Leien quarter, around Markgravelei, Van Putlei and Jan Van Rijswijcklaan. The real showpiece, however, has to be the Zurenborg borough in Berchem, a residential area located between Berchem Station and the Tramplaats. In addition to the prestigious Cogels-Osylei street, six other streets all lined with splendid town houses of ﬁn-de-siècle architecture, radiate out from Tramplaats square. These are Transvaal, Waterloo, Generaal Van Merlen, Generaal Capiaumont and Velodroom streets. Walking & Out and about

Het Eilandje

Park Den Brandt

Here you ﬁnd such a rare diversity of styles that the area has become an architectural curiosity of international fame. The Zurenborg is well worth a visit to see how the best architects of the time allowed their talents to run wild. Zurenborg-Berchem became a protected cityscape in 1980. A guide for a walk through Zurenborg can be purchased from Antwerp Tourism & Congress.

THE VERSATILE EILANDJE The ‘Eilandje’ is an interesting part of the port, where the oldest docks of the port are located. Once full of the hustle and bustle of port life, this former working-class neighbourhood has been going through a discreet revival in recent years. In the future the Eilandje will undoubtedly become an attractive neighbourhood with new assets – ranging from cultural meeting-place to attraction for water tourists. A guide for a walk through the Eilandje can be purchased from Antwerp Tourism & Congress. 76

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PARKS The Nachtegalenpark is the park of the people of Antwerp. It is the collective name for the Vogelzang, Den Brandt and Middelheim parks, a total of 90 ha of parkland just to the south of the city. Middelheim contains the Open-Air Museum of Sculpture. You will ﬁnd another concentration of parks in the district of Deurne. A constitutional there can be combined with a visit to Silver Museum Sterckshof. Sterckshof (a 1930’s reconstruction of a sixteenth-century country house) is set in the large Ter Rivierenhof provincial park with its lakes and another castle, Rivierenhof. Nature and culture also go hand in hand in the city itself. The Municipal Park is a leftover from Herentals Fort, an outer stronghold of the 16th-century ramparts. You can take a rest in Groenplaats square, in Veemarkt square, in the garden of the Ethnographic Museum (entrance in Walking & Out and about

Kaasstraat), in the inner courtyard of the Koraalberg or on a bench in one of the city’s many other little squares. The Steen fortress is just a stone’s throw away.

TRANQUIL SPOTS

Botanical Garden

Looking for a bit of peace and quiet? Besides the parks, there are a lot of (often hidden) tranquil havens to be discovered in the city: inner courtyards, squares and gardens. The best-known oasis in the historic city centre is certainly Vlaeykensgang (Oude Koornmarkt 16). The Beguinage has a beautiful inner garden with an orchard and little pond, surrounded by cobble-stoned streets next to St. Catherine’s Church. The Botanical Garden and its 2,000 noteworthy or rare plants can be found in Leopoldstraat. A greenhouse protects the cactuses and (sub)tropical plants. The garden has its design in the herb garden belonging to the medieval St. Elisabethgasthuis. Today the old buildings house the Elzenveld culture and congress centre.

SCHELDT You can walk along the Scheldt via the raised walking terraces by the Steen, but also under the shed. Breathe in the atmosphere of the 19th Century port. Not many ships are loaded or unloaded here these days. But curious vessels moor here, such as cruise ships, sailing boats or war vessels. To the north is the Eilandje neighbourhood, a bizarre ﬁlm set, with monstrous drawing bridges, ﬂoating cranes and dry docks that remind us of amphitheatres as well as monumental warehouses, including Sint-Felix or the 16th Century 78

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Hessenhuis. Take a look at the old barges in the Bonaparte Dock, dug at the behest of Napoleon.

left: Botanical Garden

NELLO AND PATRASCHE French-English author Marie Louise de la Ramée (18391908), alias Ouida, wrote the children’s book ‘A dog of Flanders’ after visiting Antwerp in 1871. It is the story of a boy called Nello and his faithful dog Patrasche, who lived in Hoboken. They travelled into Antwerp every day with their milk cart and it was there in the Cathedral of Our Lady that they met their dramatic end. The book found its way to Japan and Korea, where it was translated and is still a bestseller today. Many Japanese and Korean children have read the tragic tale of Nello and Patrasche and through it have discovered Antwerp and Rubens. There is a statue of Nello and Patrasche in the district of Hoboken at the height of the Infoshop (Kapelstraat 3). Both ﬁgures have also been immortalized in a bench; you can Walking & Out and about

ďŹ nd this work of art in front of the Cathedral of Our Lady, at Handschoenmarkt.

ROUTES This overview is just a start. If you really want to explore Antwerp thoroughly, Antwerp Tourism & Congress will be able to provide you with a series of guides for walks, cycling routes and a car route through the port. Some of the guides available:

Nello en Patrasche

The 12 Adventures in Antwerp visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide with a map of the city takes you on a walk through 12 neighbourhoods (in Dutch or English for 3,50 EUR). The Historic walks guide describes 2 walks through the historic centre (in Dutch, French, German and English for 0,50 EUR). The Zurenborg walking guide (in Dutch, French and English for 1,50 EUR) and Het Eilandje (in Dutch, French and English for 1,50 EUR). The Fashion Map (in Dutch, French, German, English and Spanish for 1,50 EUR) and guide to the Fashion Walk (in Dutch, French and English for 10,00 EUR). The Nello en Patrasche walk (in Dutch, English, Japanese and Korean for 1,25 EUR). The new guide to the Rubens walk focuses on Peter Paul Rubens, his family, work, atelier and the traces left by the artist in the city (in Dutch, French, German, English or Spanish for 5,00 EUR). The Port route takes you through the port of Antwerp (in Dutch and English for 1,50 EUR). More information: www.antwerpen.be (Dutch, French, German, English).

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Walking & Out and about

7. Shopping

ne of the many titles that Antwerp proudly used in the 16th Century was ‘de triomfelycke coopstad’ (the renowned city for shopping). Today this still rings true. Shopping in Antwerp means strolling around in the many pedestrian streets, past historic houses and pleasant shopping centres. The shopping zones are concentrated and you will be sure to find what you are looking for. Near the Central Station the Diamond District as a world centre for diamonds (axis Vestingstraat, Rijfstraat, Hoveniersstraat) has the most diverse offer for diamonds and jewellery. Opposite Central Station is the China Town of Antwerp, located in Van Wesenbekestraat and in De Coninckplein square. You can find a variety of specialised shops and supermarkets selling Chinese and Thai and other exotic foods and products. This is also the location of the indoor Criée market, a large hall where you can buy exotic delicacies and which specialises in vegetables, fish, meat and poultry. In the adjoining shopping district formed by Gemeentestraat, Carnotstraat and Dambruggestraat you will also find the first pedestrian shopping street in Antwerp, Offerandestraat. The momentum caused by Designcenter De Winkelhaak resulted in various new design stores establishing themselves in this neighbourhood.

Meir

The 19th Century city centre near Central Station and the historic city nucleus near the cathedral are connected by 82

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Shopping

stately De Keyserlei, Leysstraat and Meir. Don’t forget to look at the impressive and architecturally beautiful façades of most stores during your shopping spree. In and around these wide shopping streets you will mostly find well-known European chain stores and various shopping centres. When walking from the station along De Keyserlei strollers will encounter the Century Center and the Hylitt Gallery to their left. Further down are the Appelmansstraat and Quellinstraat shopping streets, with the Empire Shopping Center and the Quellin Shopping Center. Also important are the stores on the lefthand side of the large Frankrijklei boulevard. You will find a number of prestigious clothing and interior design stores on both sides of the street. After crossing the wide traffic axis formed by the Frankrijklei, two pedestrian streets, you will cross Teniersplaats to the majestic Meir, the busiest shopping street in Belgium, drawing some 240,000 visitors on a weekly basis. www.meir-as.be (Dutch) Het nieuwe paradepaardje bevindt zich op huisnummer 78 nl. de als shoppingcenter ingerichtte gerestaureerde Stadsfeestzaal. Adjoining Meir are a large number of shopping streets, including the stylish stores of Huidevetterstraat, including Meir Square, Lange Gasthuisstraat, Schoenmarkt, the Wilde Zee pedestrian zone, the Quartier Latin – dominated by the beautifully restored Bourla Theatre and Komedieplaats and the luxury stores of Schuttershofstraat. In the continuation of the Schuttershofstraat lies Hopland, with the Horta complex and various modern stores of renowned fashion houses. 84

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The Wilde Zee consists of the pedestrian shopping streets Wiegstraat, Groendalstraat, Schrijnwerkersstraat, Korte Gasthuisstraat and Lombardenvest. This shopping zone is ideal for strolling and offers an extensive range of women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, accessories of exclusive fashion houses and an impressive variety of trendy lunch addresses. This zone also has shopping galleries, Den Oudaan and the Nieuwe Gaanderij. To the right of the KBC Tower lies Eiermarkt, with the Grand Bazar Shopping Centre and the Cleynen and the Grootten Biecorff. Lombardenvest is already part of thé fashion district in Antwerp with the ModeNatie in Nationalestraat in the role of the ‘Beaubourg’ of Antwerp fashion. This neighbourhood is where the movers and shakers of Antwerp fashion, often graduates of the much-praised Antwerp Fashion Academy, live their lives. Major international names and former fashion academics are represented in this street and in Steenhouwersvest and SintAntoniusstraat. Kammenstraat has some classy stores, but mainly features streetwear for a hip, trendy and young audience. To the right of the Bourla theatre lies Leopoldstraat with the Botanical Garden as a haven of peace and quiet. Together with St. Jorispoort this neighbourhood is a paradise for antiques lovers. Past the majestic building of the National Bank, across Britselei, lies Mechelsesteenweg, featuring antiques, but also haute couture, and various interior design stores selling textiles, furniture, lighting and carpets. Shopping

The traffic axis, which runs from Britselei in the direction of the Berchem station is constituted by Lange Leemstraat and Isabellalei (www.kleinantwerpen.be (Dutch)). The streets have some specialty stores where you can buy food, find items to redecorate your interior, flowers etc. Lovers of bric-à-brac, old books and prints can go treasure-hunting in one of the stores along Minderbroedersrui, Hoogstraat and Kloosterstraat (one long street with a huge concentration of collectibles stores). Other locations worth a visit are the Saturday market at Lijnwaadmarkt next to the cathedral (cathedral (from Easter until the end of October, 9 am - 5 pm) or the Sunday market at SintJansvliet (9 am – 5 pm). You can also visit Vrijdagmarkt, where second-hand and new objects are auctioned off every week (Fridays, 9 am – 1 pm). You will also find valuable antiques and objets d’art in this neighbourhood in Steenhouwersvest and in Schuttershofstraat. The Foundation of the Antwerp Antique Dealers has a brochure detailing a walk along the antiques stores. It undoubtedly will come in handy during their yearly open door days (last weekend of November, first weekend of December). The axis running along Eiermarkt, Melkmarkt, Korte Koepoortstraat, Lange Koepoortstraat, Klapdorp and Paardenmarkt features a varied range of stores and connects the old city with the shopping streets to the north of the city. The shops don’t end on Italiëlei, because the shopping zone continues via Vondelstraat and St.-Jansplein (market on Wednesday and Friday mornings between 8 am and 1 pm) past St. Gummarusstraat and Diepestraat to the Stuivenberg neighbourhood. You will find mainly 86

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Turkish and Moroccan stores in Van Kerckhovenstraat, Handelstraat and in Korte Zavelstraat and Lange Zavelstraat. To reach the ‘Zuid’ neighbourhood, walk from Groenplaats through Nationalestraat and the fashion district. This trendy neighbourhood has quite a lot of shopping assets. In Kasteelpleinstraat you can ﬁnd stores specialising in kitchen necessities and garden architecture. Volksstraat features stores selling toys, lighting and bric-à-brac, while Graaf Van Hoornstraat and Museumstraat sell antiquities and interior decoration accessories. The neighbourhood of Vlaamse Kaai and Waalse Kaai combines modern galleries with exclusive design stores and interior textiles. Between Amerikalei and Binnensingel, in the southernmost part of the city, in Brederodestraat and Montignystraat, a large number of stores offer a diverse range of foreign products. Every Saturday (8 am – 4 pm), in Theaterplein square, near the Municipal theatre, an Exotic market is held. On Sundays (8 am – 1 pm) the stallholders of the famous Vogelenmarkt (Bird Market) set up shop, a spectacle that you really shouldn’t miss – not only because just about everything is sold there but also because of the way it is sold. Antwerp Tourism & Congress can provide you with lists of auction houses, antiquarian book stores, antiques dealers and curiosity.

Shopping

Exotic Market

OPENING HOURS Most stores in Antwerp are open every day, except Sunday, from 10 am – 6 pm. The sales period runs from July 1st until 31st and from January 2nd until 31st. Late night shopping until 10 pm and a Sunday opening from 11 am – 6 pm is sometimes a feature during this period, when the ﬁrst day of the sales period is at the beginning or at the end of the week. During the end of year period many stores are open for three successive Sundays: the Sunday before Christmas, and two other Sundays (dates available in the preceding month). Birds Market (Vogelenmarkt)

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Shopping

8. Good food Antwerp, city of Burgundian pleasures

he people of Antwerp have always been said to have a reﬁned palate – when it comes to food and drink! Because of its unique location, the city has been a port since the Golden Age (16th Century). All kinds of delicacies, beverages, herbs and spices from all over the world were imported through the Antwerp port. This exotic input and fascinating diversity is still part of Antwerp’s culture today. Enjoy! Typical Antwerp and Flemish specialities, such as stewed eel in chervil sauce, various preparations with mussels, dishes with rabbit or beef stew and chicory (witloof) can be tasted at numerous restaurants, bistros, pubs and inns that serve meals and often feature a regional menu. The authentic Belgian frites with mayonnaise, as presented in various chips stands or ‘frituurs’ in the traditional cornet will always remain a local favourite. The majority of Antwerp restaurants tend towards classic French cuisine, with a Belgian touch and reﬁned ingredients. In a cosmopolitan city such as Antwerp the more adventurous will be able to discover a whole range of European, exotic and biologic dishes and try out the newest food trends. The neighbourhoods with the most restaurants are the station district, the Quartier Latin, the historic centre and of course the Zuid neighbourhood. For the most diverse range of culinary possibilities, try any of these spots.

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Good food

HISTORIC CENTRE An abundance of native and exotic restaurants, inns and pubs that serve food (Suikerrui – Hoogstraat, Reyndersstraat, Vlasmarkt, Grote Pieter Potstraat, Ernest Van Dyckkaai, Zirkstraat, Wolstraat); pizza, pasta, mezze and pita bars (Oude Koornmarkt, Pelgrimstraat); a variety of restaurants with terraces looking out on attractive squares (Grote Markt, Groenplaats, Handschoenmarkt, Hendrik Conscienceplein, Lijnwaadmarkt, Veemarkt).

THE ZUID left: © Lux right: Main square

THE STATION DISTRICT A variety of Chinese and Thai restaurants (around Van Wesenbekestraat – De Coninckplein); a fantastic range of exotic cuisine, as well as tapa bars and pita bars (around Statiestraat – Breydelstraat – Anneessensstraat); a rich spectrum of inns, brasseries and hotel restaurants with daily specials and suggestions (around De Keyserlei); kosher restaurants (Appelmansstraat, Lange Kievitstraat – Simonsstraat – Van Leriusstraat – Isabellalei).

QUARTIER LATIN The theatre district, where you can have a bite before or after the play: a rich selection of bistros and pubs that serve meals, terraces in the summer, grand cafes, brasseries and exotic cuisine (Wapper – Hopland – Graanmarkt – Schuttershofstraat – Leopoldstraat – Arme Duivelstraat); in the Wilde Zee shopping zone you’ll mainly ﬁnd salad bars and snack bars as well as lunch rooms and tea rooms. 92

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Large choice of native and exotic restaurants (with terraces), spots where you can taste vegetarian cuisine, bistros en pubs that serve food (Vlaamse and Waalse Kaai – Gentplaats – Leopold de Waelplaats, Leopold de Waelstraat – Graaf van Hoornstraat en Kasteelpleinstraat).

Antwerpse handjes

OTHER DISTRICTS There’s a large number of addresses where you can dine out around Dageraadplaats and Dam – Lange Lobroekstraat (former slaughterhouse), in the Eilandje district and on the left Bank at St.-Anneke.

DELICACIES AND SPECIALITIES Fresh bakeries, delis and conﬁserie (sweets) stores, praline and chocolate stores, salons de dégustation and coffee houses: a true gastronomic paradise with an impressive offer of culinary delights for the demanding gourmet. The Antwerpse Handjes – sand cookies or chocolates with or Good food

without marzipan shaped like a hand – are a well-known treat that is very much in demand. Other typical sweets are Antwerps gebak, between a biscuit or a cake, covered with almonds, apricot jam and sugar icing or the Semini biscuit, a light sweet biscuit with sesame seed and a marzipan image of the Antwerp fertility symbol Semini. Worstenbrood (sausage rolls) and appelbollen (apple balls) are the first choice for many people in Antwerp after the New Year. The roggeverdommeke, a delicious raisin / rye bread, is another timeless favourite. During carnivals and markets hot waffles and smoutebollen (dough balls fried in oil) are the snack of choice. Another ritual, which has become an art of life in Antwerp, is drinking. Brouwerij De Coninck brews the well-known amber-coloured ‘bolleke’, the noble ‘cuvée’, the golden blonde ‘Antoon’ beer (created for the Van Dyck year in ‘99), the ‘bolleke blond’ and specially for the winter the ‘Winterkoninck’. At house brewery ’t Pakhuis you can learn more about the brewing process of the ‘Antwerps blond’, ‘Antwerps bruin’ and ‘den Bangelijke’ beers. Nello’s Blond, a more recent brew, is a full-bodied, unfiltered high-fermentation beer that refers to the boy Nello in the story A Dog of Flanders. And you must taste ‘Elixir d’Anvers’, a liqueur with digestive properties based on 32 plants and herbs, prepared in accordance with an old tradition dating back to 1863.

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Good food

9. Going out Need some relaxation and entertainment? Come to Antwerp for the most diverse range of choices. A short overview per district.

HISTORIC CENTRE AND SINT-ANDRIES Cafés are a way of life in these neighbourhoods. They come in all sorts and shapes: traditional brown pubs, stage cafés, Irish pubs, taverns, grand cafés... the largest concentration can be found on and around Groenplaats and Grote Markt. During the summer the countless terraces make for an entertaining hustle and bustle. Other terraces can be found on Vrijdagmarkt, Handschoenmarkt, Hendrik Conscienceplein, Lijnwaadmarkt, St.-Jansvliet and Veemarkt as well as in Suikerrui, Oude Koornmarkt, Hoogstraat, Papenstraatje, Jan Blomstraat, Blauwmoezelstraat, Vlasmarkt and alongside the quays of the Scheldt, including the Noorderterras (Jordaenskaai) and the Zuiderterras (Ernest Van Dijckkaai), on the banks of the Scheldt. Many cafés feature live music. The neighbourhood has a number of well-known typical staminees offering a splendid variety of beers.

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There’s something for every music and theatre lover in Antwerp: places with live piano music, the Centre for Old Music in the former Church of St. Augustine, Sunday lunch concerts featuring opera, operette or light classical music. There are several theatres, including the Fakkeltheater, the Kon. Poppenschouwburg Van Campen (Royal Puppet Theatre), a café theatre named De Peerdestal van Napoleon (cellar) and the Noordtheater. The Appeltje theatre and Het Klokhuis often change their

Going out

programmes and sometimes feature English-language plays. The smallest theatre of them all, the marionettenkelder de Poesje (the famous Poesje puppet theatre), will play for groups upon appointment.

If it’s a movie you feel like, visit the UGC Cinema complex and its 17 comfortable movie theatres. The Van Schoonhovenstraat has a large concentration of gay bars.

Most of the discotheques and karaoke bars are near Grote Markt, as well dance cafés, party cafés, and gay bars. Between Grote Markt and the River Scheldt ﬁlm lovers will enjoy discovering the Cartoon’s movie theatre (Kaasstraat 4-6), showing art ﬁlms in three cosy theatres.

EILANDJE

The St. Andries neighbourhood also has a number of neighbourhood pubs and summer terraces in Sint-Andriesplaats, Kloosterstraat en Nationalestraat.

AROUND THE STATION The numerous terraces along Koningin Astridplein (near Radisson BLU Astrid Hotel Antwerp and near the Zoo) regularly overﬂow during the summer, with people having a snack in the many stylish brasseries, grand cafés and tea rooms. The same goes for the other squares in the neighbourhood including Franklin Rooseveltplaats, De Coninckplein, Sint-Jansplein, in Statiestraat, Gemeentestraat and Offerandestraat. The neighbourhood is also known for its discotheques and cafés with live acts. The Vlaamse Opera (Flemish Opera - Frankrijklei 3) is housed in a magniﬁcent historic building. Looking for a concert and spectacle: then it’s the Koningin Elisabethzaal (Kon. Astridplein 23-24) you need to go check out. The Nieuwe Boulevard Theater Group plays in Elckerlyc (Frankrijklei 85-87). 98

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This is where the Ballet van Vlaanderen ballet company works and plays in Theater ’t Eilandje (Kattendijkdok – Westkaai 16). Need a breath of fresh air in the summer: check out one of the terraces along Brouwersvliet, Oude Leeuwenrui, Napelsstraat, Napoleonskaai and Londenstraat. There are various discotheques, party venues, bars and clubs in this neighbourhood. There are many dance cafés at the height of Brouwersvliet.

Laundry Day

SCHIPPERSKWARTIER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT This neighbourhood is known for its Red Light District between Verversrui, Vingerlingstraat and Schippersstraat. Find the typical sailor’s cafés in Schippersstraat and in SintPaulusplaats. The Internationaal Zeemanshuis (International Seamen’s House - Falconrui 21) regularly features theatre productions spiced with some Antwerp folklore. The gay community meets in this neighbourhood in various discotheques and cafes.

STADSWAAG – OSSENMARKT This part of the city has been claimed by the students of Antwerp. This is where the University of Antwerp (UFSIA Going out

section) and the Academy of Fine Arts have established themselves. Many stores and pubs have a distinct student ﬂavour, but everyone is welcome to have a snack and a drink in one of the many pubs around Ossenmarkt. The Zuidpool Theatre has been housed in Lange Noordstraat 11 for quite some time now. Take your pick from any of the terraces in Stadswaag, Paardenmarkt and Ossenmarkt.

QUARTIER LATIN

This neighbourhood is the theatre neighbourhood of Antwerp. The Stadsschouwburg (Municipal Theatre Theaterplein 1) features an events hall as well as a children’s theatre named Het Paleis. The splendidly restored Bourla Theatre (Komedieplaats 18) of theatre group Het Toneelhuis symbolises Antwerp’s long and rich concert and theatre tradition. For real Antwerp theatre in full Antwerp dialect, check out the Echt Antwaarps teater (Arenbergstraat 8-10). ‘t Klein Raamteater (Lange Gasthuisstraat 26) features various dramatic genres during its season. The Arenberg cultural centre (Arenbergstraat 26-28) mainly shows cabaret and chanson productions. For a lunch concert with classic music go to Kolveniershof (Kolveniersstraat 20). The chapel of the Elzenveld cultural centre is the place to be for exclusive concerts of old music with historic keyboard instruments. The artist’s cafés are always in the vicinity of the theatres.

ZUID This trendy neighbourhood features a number of discotheques, clubs and party places as well as cafés with live 100

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music. A loyal public frequents the numerous literary cafés around the neighbourhood.

left: Flemish opera

Theatre lovers can have an evening out at Raamtheater op ‘t Zuid (De Vrièrestraat 36) and Cinema Tokio (Verlatstraat 20). Monty (Montignystraat 3-5) features theatre as well as dance. The Centre for world culture in Zuiderpershuis, De Zuiderkroon (Vlaamse kaai 81-83), Theatre Frou Frou (Namenstraat 7) and Peña Al Andalus (Vorstermansstraat 1) show different kinds of spectacles. For more information about gay bars, contact Het Roze Huis (Draakplaats 2). At the edge of the city lies the gigantic concert and theatre hall Sportpaleis (Schijnpoortweg 113, Merksem) and the Lotto Arena next to it, the international arts centre deSingel (Desguinlei 25) and the smaller Hof ter Lo concert hall (Noordersingel 30).

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10. Attractions Antwerpen, child-friendly city THE ANTWERP ZOO The Antwerp Zoo is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in the world. Its location - originally just outside the city walls, now an oasis of peace in the heart of the city, next door to Central Station - is typical of its nineteenth-century origins. You must set aside at least half a day for a visit because there really is so much to see and do. Penguins in Vriesland, elephants and giraffes in a unique Egyptian temple and a brand new pink villa for the hippos, and their neighbours, the tapirs. More than 6,000 animals await you here. The Antwerp Zoo has developed an international reputation because of its participation in international breeding programmes for threatened species, such as the okapi, the Golden Lion Tamarin and the Congo peacock. The Zoo is famous for its scientiﬁc research, for instance in Brazil, Congo and Cameroon and guarantees that the animals can spend their lives in the best possible conditions.

Zoo

The beautiful, distinctive buildings and garden have been classiﬁed and the Zoo has managed to combine nature and history with modern animal quarters. Depending on the season you can have a bite in one of the three restaurants, which serve a nice variety of dishes. But of course, there’s nothing to stop you from having a picnic on a bench. 104

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Zoo

Aquatopia

OPENING HOURS: daily from 10 am. Closing time depends on the season: until 4.45 pm (January, February, November, and December); until 5.30 pm (March, April, and October); until 6 pm (May, June, and September); until 7 pm (July, August). Presentations at the Planetarium: Sundays and Wednesdays around 2 pm. ADMISSION: 17,50 EUR (adults), 12,50 EUR (children between 3 and 11 and disabled persons). Children under 3: free. Discounts for 60+ and groups of 15 persons or more. Combination tickets possible with Aquatopia, the Diamond Museum, Pirateneiland and Flandria boat trips, Touristram or for train passengers (B-Dagtrip). Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Koningin Astridplein 26, BE-2018 Antwerp phone: +32 3 202 45 40 - fax: +32 3 231 00 18 e-mail: info@zooantwerpen.be www.zooantwerpen.be (Dutch, French)

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AQUATOPIA, FASCINATING TREASURES OF THE SEA Aquatopia, situated in the very heart of Antwerp and right across Antwerp’s Central Station, is a fascinating “wunderwaterworld” where more than 10.000 exotic fish (250 species) can be discovered in their natural habitat (1 million litres of water!). Sharks, piranhas, stingrays and colourful little reef fish: at ‘Aquatopia’ nature is proud to show off all its beauty and diversity, almost within the visitor’s reach. The fish and other sea creatures will take you on a marvellous voyage through a tropical rain forest, along rivers and swamps, in a submarine to coral reefs, to the depths of the ocean. After you’ve visited Aquatopia seas, oceans, lakes and rivers will never look the same again. Fibu, the funny Aquatopia mascot and octopus will tell you everything you need to know about the wunderwaterworld through interAttractions

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active displays and multimedia applications. Adults and children will enjoy a fun, instructive and magical afternoon several miles below sea level! Tip: for nature lovers who feel like meeting more animals after their visit to Aquatopia, a combination ticket also gives access to the Zoo. Aquatopia is located in the buildings of the Radisson BLU Astrid Hotel Antwerp, across Central Station, near the Antwerp Zoo and the new Diamond Museum.

Aquatopia

OPENING HOURS: daily 10 am - 6 pm. Closed on December 25th. Last admission at 5 pm. ADMISSION: Individual visitors: Under 3 free, 3-12 9,50 EUR, 13-60 13,95 EUR, 60+, disabled 9,50 EUR Groups of 15 persons or more: on request Family tickets available. Wheelchair access? Yes ADDRESS: Koningin Astridplein 7, BE-2018 Antwerp phone: +32 3 205 07 40 - fax: +32 3 205 07 51 e-mail: info@aquatopia.be www.aquatopia.be (Dutch, French, German, English)

PIRATES’ ISLAND Go on an adventure and explore the wild seas. Children can have the time of their life in this indoor playground. ADMISSION: accompanying adults free. Children: 7,50 EUR a day; disabled: discount. Wednesdays, weekends, holidays and ofﬁcial holidays: 9,00 EUR a day. Please call well in advance for information on opening hours. Wheelchair access? Yes 108

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ADDRESS: Kribbestraat 12, BE-2000 Antwerp Information and reservations: phone: +32 3 213 50 60 - fax : +32 3 213 50 65 e-mail: info@pirateneiland.be www.pirateneiland.be (Dutch)

A BOAT TRIP ON THE SCHELDT At the pontoon at the height of Steenplein pleasure boats come and go. They will take you upstream or downstream. Six shipping companies mean visitors can take their pick of excursions. What’s on offer? Pirat’s Island

Boottochten Rivertours ADDRESS: Steenplein, BE-2000 Antwerpen phone: +32 3 711 38 21 - fax: +32 3 771 44 53 e-mail: info@rivertours.be www.rivertours.be (Dutch, French, English) Boottochten Jan Plezier ADDRESS: Rerum Novarumlaan 132, BE-2170 Merksem phone: +32 475 69 68 80 - fax: +32 3 647 30 67 e-mail: info@janplezier.be www.janplezier.be (Dutch) Shipping company Antverpia sails in July and August during weekends. The Sint-Annekesboot sails from Steenplein to Linkeroever or along the Scheldt. ADDRESS: Elzasweg 10, BE-2030 Antwerp phone: +32 3 546 06 16 - fax: +32 3 546 06 19 e-mail: adh@baeck.be www.boottochten.be (Dutch)

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Shipping company Flandria ADDRESS: Steenplein, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 231 31 00 - fax: +32 3 231 74 76 e-mail: info@flandria.nu www.flandria.nu (Dutch) Riverstar ADDRESS: Blancefloerlaan 173/42, BE-2050 Antwerpen phone: +32 3 722 13 10 - fax: +32 3 772 72 11 e-mail: riverstar@skynet.be www.riverstar.be (Dutch) Boattrip on the Scheldt

Spring Rivercruiser ADDRESS: Industriepark, Brechtsebaan 18 A, BE-2900 Schoten phone: +32 473 86 42 58 - fax: +32 3 666 19 25 e-mail: vdm.service@telenet.be www.spring-rivercruise.be (Dutch, French, English) You can also rent a boat from any of these shipping companies for events, group excursions or business meetings. For more info, check www.antwerpen.be or any of the shipping companies.

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Ruihuis

RUIEN (THE ANTWERP CANALS) The underwater canal system reveals part of Antwerp’s history. The 1.6-km underground walk opens up part of Antwerp’s historic heritage and enables visitors to take a look underground, in the belly of the city. No health hazard involved. An experienced guide will take you on a 3-hr walk dressed in protective gear. An underground adventure, illustrated with an exhibition on the history of Antwerp’s sewer system. Your guide will accompany you back to the RUIhuis during a walk above ground. Three types of visit: • Ruihuis Short visit of the Ruihuis: building and entrance hall. Attention: visit to the underground canals not included! From 9.30 am to 5.30 pm • Guided underground Ruien walk for individuals Guided walks every day at 11 am and 1 pm Duration: 3 hours – of which 1.30 hrs underground 112

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• Guided Ruien walk for groups Guided walks every day at 9.30 am and 2 pm Duration: 3 hours – of which 1.30 hrs underground

Ruien (the Antwerp canal’s)

Protective clothing (trousers, jacket, and boots), a torch, a small backpack and a leaﬂet are provided at the start of the walk. The boots and ﬂash light are to be returned after the walk, the protective clothing and backpack are yours to keep as a souvenir! Languages: Dutch, French, German, English Wheelchair access? No ADDRESS: Suikerrui 21, BE-2000 Antwerp Information and reservations: Antwerp Tourism & Congress phone: +32 3 232 01 03 - fax: +32 3 203 95 91 e-mail: visit@stad.antwerpen.be www.ruihuis.be (Dutch)

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11. Sightseeing TRAM - BUS - METRO Antwerp has a well developed bus, tram and metro network. You can buy different kinds of tickets. An individual ticket costs 1,60 EUR and is valid for 60 minutes (available from the driver). A 10-journey card costs 8,00 EUR and is valid for 10 x 60 minutes (on sale in the metro stations, at the ticket ofďŹ ces in Central Station and at the advance sale points). An individual day ticket costs 5,00 EUR and is valid for 24 hours (available in the shop of De Lijn in Central Station, in metro stations, at Antwerp Tourism & Congress and at the advance sale points). More info: Transport company De Lijn, phone: 070 22 02 00 or +32 3 218 14 11, www.delijn.be (Dutch).

ANTWERP DIAMOND BUS

Horse and carriage

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Hop on / Hop off journey with a double decker bus. Explanation in 8 languages: Dutch, French, German, English, Spanish, Italian, Japanese and Russian. A ticket is valid for 24 hours and costs 12,00 EUR (adults), 6,00 EUR (children) or 11,00 EUR (students and 65+). e-mail: antwerpdiamondbus@skynet.be www.brussels-city-tours.com (Dutch, French, German, English, Spanish) Stops: STOP 1: Central Station (de Keyserlei); STOP 2: Loosplaats (Stadspark / City Park); STOP 3: Groenplaats; STOP 4: Royal Museum of Fine Arts; STOP 5: St.-Michielskaai; STOP 6: Steenplein/Suikerrui; STOP 7: Londenstraat. All stops are also stops of the transport company De Lijn. The bus leaves very hour between 10.30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 16.30 hrs from Stop 1.

Antwerp Diamond Bus

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Horse-drawn tram

HORSE AND CARRIAGE

TOURISTRAM

See the city with the Daems carriages. ‘Since 1975’. 10 min. journey (13,00 EUR) or 20 min. (23,00 EUR). Departure from Grote Markt, in front of the Town Hall. 5 persons at the most per carriage. Commentary in Dutch. From Easter to end of October: every day noon – 6 pm (July – August), the other months on Saturdays and Sundays only between noon – 6 pm. November – March: weather permitting. ADDRESS: Boterlaarbaan 537 - 2100 Deurne Cell: +32 475 74 66 20

30-minute journey with audiocassette in Dutch, French, English, German, Spanish, Italian and Japanese. Departure and arrival on the hour in Groenplaats. April – September: daily 11 am – 5 pm, October – March: every weekend noon – 4 pm, every hour. Winter: upon request. Ticket 5,00 EUR (adults), 4,00 EUR (60+), 3,50 EUR (6-18 years, disabled persons and their companion, groups), children under 6 free. Wheelchair-friendly. Information board with hours for individual journeys at Groenplaats. Some journeys are reserved. ADDRESS: Aarschotsesteenweg 138 b, BE-2500 Lier Phone: +32 3 480 93 88 (9 - 12 hrs) - fax: +32 3 480 93 43 E-mail: verhuur@touristram.be www.touristram.be (Dutch, French, English)

Visit the city with the Vervoort carriages. A 20- to 25-minute journey (23,00 EUR). Departure from Grote Markt, weather permitting. Every day starting at midday. Adapted carriages for groups: only upon reservation. ADDRESS: Oelegemsteenweg 46, BE-2160 Wommelgem phone: +32 3 353 82 70 - fax: +32 3 353 82 70 e-mail: info@koetsen-vervoort.be www.koetsen-vervoort.be (Dutch)

HORSE-DRAWN TRAM Visit the city with Jut en Aer vzw. 40-minute journey (5,00 EUR per passenger). Hourly departures from Grote Markt. From April 1st until October 31st: daily from noon till 8 pm. ADDRESS: Berkendreef 33, BE-2990 Wuustwezel phone: +32 3 669 85 20 - fax: +32 3 669 85 20. e-mail : werkendtrekpaard@pandora.be e-mail : info@werkendtrekpaard.be www.werkendtrekpaard.be (Dutch, partially in French, German and English) 116

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Touristram

CYCLING AROUND ANTWERP Discover the city by bike, individually or in group, with or without a guide. The Tourist Informat ion Ofﬁce of the Province of Antwerp has published detailed maps and bicycle routes (St.-Anneke route, Brialmont route, Architecture route, ...). Information regarding guided bike tours and brochures can be obtained from Antwerp Tourism & Congress. You can rent a bike from: De Fiets-Dokter ADDRESS: Verschansingstraat 48, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 237 82 54. Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9 am – 6 pm; Saturday 10 am – 4 pm. Sightseeing

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e-mail: fietsjutter@hotmail.com www.fietsjutter.be (Dutch) De Ligfiets ADDRESS: Steenhouwersvest 25, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 293 74 56. Opening hours: Wednesday – Friday 2 pm - 6.30 pm, Saturday 11 am – 6 pm. Rates: 25,00 EUR (1 day). e-mail: info@ligfiets.be www.deligfiets.be (Dutch) Recumbent bikes for individuals and groups. Freewieler ADDRESS: Steenplein 1a - BE-2000 Antwerp Opening hours: daily 9 am – 6 pm, April 1st - September 30th Rates: adults 3,00 EUR (1 hour), 12,00 EUR (1 day) Bikes must be picked up at Steenplein, preferably after reservation. Reservations: phone: +32 3 213 22 51 - fax: +32 3 213 22 54 e-mail: info@v-zit.be www.v-zit.be (Dutch, French, English) Fietshaven ADDRESS: Central Station – Entrance bikes, Koningin Astridplein, BE-2018 Antwerp Opening hours: Monday – Friday (except Wednesday) 9.30 am – 4 pm. Rates: 6,00 EUR (3 hours), 19,00 EUR (1 day) Phone: +32 3 203 06 73 e-mail: info@fietshaven.be www.fietshaven.be (Dutch, English) 118

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12. More Antwerp, from A to Z The Antwerp metropolis is the largest city in Flanders. This means that you will have to spend quite some time in the city before you will have discovered all the fascinating neighbourhoods, remarkable buildings, speciﬁc museums and cosy corners off the beaten track. The following addresses are bound to intrigue you. Next time perhaps?

SMALL MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITION SPACES Antwerp Expo exhibition centre; various trade fairs in 20.500 m2 of exhibition space. Opening hours and admission fees depend on the organisers of the fair or exhibition. Jan van Rijswijcklaan 191, phone: +32 3 260 81 20, www.antwerpexpo.be (Dutch, French, English). Antwerp Airship Building Panamarenko Permanent exhibition of original works, books, editions and multiples by Panamarenko. Open: every day from end May until end August between 10 am – 6 pm. Closed on Mondays. Open on appointment. Karel Geertsstraat 2b - Borgerhout, phone: +32 3 216 93 90, fax: +32 3 237 25 16, e-mail: ronnyvandevelde@skynet.be. Antwerps Museum en Archief Den Crans (Antwerp Museum and Archives Den Crans), costumes, weapons, documents from Den Crans Archers’ Guild, The Museum is in the Reuzenhuis. By appointment, groups only. Phone: +32 3 235 35 94. Atlantikwall museum WWII German Führung bunker, HQ of the 89th armee corps of the 15th army, 2000 m3 of reinforced concrete. Opening hours: Opening hours: Saturday 1 pm – 5 pm, Sunday 10 am – 5 pm. Free. Groups 120

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left: Saint-Felix above: Panamarenko

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above: Bernardus Centre

below: Eugeen Van Mieghem Museum

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and schools on appointment. Acacialaan in Wilrijk (in Den Brandt park), phone: +32 3 218 66 10, e-mail: dirk@bunkerenvliegtuigarcheo.com, www.bunkerenvliegtuigarcheo.com (Dutch) Bernarduscentrum (Bernardus Centre) European Information Point. European Information Point. Opening hours: Monday-Friday 9.30 am – 5 pm, guided tours for groups of adults or students between 10 and 12 possible between 10 am – 4 pm, on appointment only. Free. Lombardenvest 23-25 – 2000 Antwerp, phone: +32 3 202 42 92, e-mail: ed@admin.provant.be , www.provant.be/ed (Dutch). Dagbladmuseum (Newspaper Museum), Kapelstraat 6163, Hoboken, phone: +32 3 887 01 78, e-mail: info@dagbladmuseum.be, www.dagbladmuseum.be (Dutch), info: Grote Markt 40 – 2000 Antwerp, every Friday between 11 am – 4 pm in the ofﬁces of the VVJ (Flemish Association of Professional Journalists). Eugeen Van Mieghem Museum Some 150 works in various techniques by Antwerp painter – artist Eugeen Van Mieghem (1875-1930), who is mainly known for his commitment in art to show people in a world port. The works, documents from the archives of the artist and the photos from his atelier, which are on display give the visitor an excellent idea of the world of a very personal artist. Van Mieghem’s works have recently been garnering renewed interest abroad. Opening hours: Sundays 2 pm – 6 pm, closed in July, August and on public holidays. Admission: 3,75 EUR, groups on appointment. Scheldebuilding, Beatrijslaan 8, Linkeroever, phone: +32 3 211 03 30, e-mail: van.mieghem.museum@skynet.be, www.vanmieghemmuseum.com (Dutch, English). Frietkotmuseum (Frituur museum) Collection of 150 paintings, drawings, sculptures, objects, photos and collages by

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more than 70 artists on the noble art of frying frites. Groenplaats 12 (above frietkot Max), phone: +32 495 21 35 80. Heemkundig Museum Borgerhout (Borgerhout local history museum), Turnhoutsebaan 110, phone: +32 3 270 17 21. Heemkundig Museum Wilrica (Wilrica Local History Museum), religious devotion and local history. Open every 2nd Sunday of the month between 2 pm – 6 pm. Free, St.-Bavostraat 20, Wilrijk, phone: +32 3 828 85 51. Museum De Kijkuit, Merksem local history. Open Wednesdays 2 pm – 5 pm, Saturdays 9 am – noon. Also on request. Hofke Van Roosendael, Terlindenhofstraat 265, Merksem, phone: +32 3 645 16 77, fax: +32 3 646 79 59. Museum voor Anesthesie (Museum for Anaesthesia), old apparatus for anaesthesia and reanimation from various countries, ranging from the mask and drip method (chloroform and ether) of the end of the 19th Century to after WW II. Open: only on request. Admission: 5,00 EUR. -14 free. Verantare Geneesherenhuis, Louizastraat 8, phone: +32 3 664 33 44 or +32 3 238 38 78. Museum voor Binnenscheepvaart (Museum for Inland Shipping), berth for old inland vessels, museum ships: “Mon Désir”, “Lionar” and “Angèle”. Open: April 15th – October 15th on Wednesdays 2 pm – 6 pm and every ﬁrst Saturday of the month 10 am – 2 pm. Bonaparte Dock, Nieuwpoortkade, Kaai 10, phone: +32 3 232 86 70 and +32 3 219 09 80. Museum voor Rederijkerij en Amateurtoneel (Museum for Rhetoric and Amateur Theatre), Durletstraat 4-6, temporarily closed. Naaimachinemuseum Braspennincx (Braspennincx Sewing Machine museum) Collection of 170 machines, including the oldest, a 1829 Thimonnier and the ﬁrst complete sewing machine by American inventor Elias Howe from

above: Museum of Aneasthesia

below: Wilrica Local History Museum

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above: Pelgrom Burgher’s house

below: Lillo-Fort Polder Museum

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1846. Opening hours: exclusively on request, except in July and August, individuals or groups of 15 persons and more, free. Van Roiestraat 10-14 in Merksem, phone: +32 3 645 96 32, www.braspennincx.be (Dutch). Nationaal Museum en Archief Douane en Accijnzen (Customs and Excise National Museum and Archives), objects and documents relating to the history of customs and excise, open on Wednesdays from 2 pm – 4 pm (except on public holidays and by appointment, free. Kattendijkdok – Oostkaai 22, phone: +32 3 229 22 42, www.museumsite.be (Dutch). Natuurhistorisch Museum Boekenberg (Boekenberg Natural History Museum), 19th Century artificial caves, shells, fossils, minerals, prehistoric objects. Open on Sundays, May through October, 2 pm – 6 pm. Admission 1,00 EUR, children under 6 free. Boekenbergpark, Unitaslaan in Deurne. Pelgrom Poorterswoning (‘Pelgrom’ burgher’s house) This true-to-life 16th-century interior illustrates life at the time, with a fire in the hearth, flickering candles and smoky oil lamps. Open Saturdays and Sundays from noon – 6 pm, 3,00 EUR (incl. ticket for a drink), groups on request also during the week, Pelgrimstraat 15, phone: +32 3 234 08 09, www.pelgrom.be (Dutch, French, German, English). Poldermuseum Lillo-Fort (Lillo-Fort Polder Museum), local history of life in the ten polder villages and furniture belonging to the painter Nicaise de Keyser. Open from Easter through October 31st on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from noon – 6 pm. Admission: 1,50 EUR, children 10 – 15 : 0,50 EUR, groups of 20 people or more and 60+: 1,00 EUR. Tolhuisstraat 14, Lillo, phone: +32 3 664 14 81. Politiemuseum Oudaan (Oudaan Police Museum), history of the metropolitan police, beautiful panorama of the city. Free, by appointment only with curator Fernand Van Tichelen. Police Tower, Oudaan 12th floor, phone: +32 3 202 58 28.

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Provinciaal Veiligheidsinstituut (Provincial Safety Institute) Permanent exhibition relating to safety. Open Mondays to Fridays from 8.30 am – 5 pm. Closed on Sundays and public holidays and from 25/12 to 2/1; Queen Fabiola Room for thematic exhibitions. Jezusstraat 28-30, phone: +32 3 203 42 00, www.provant.be/pvi (Dutch). Stampe-Vertongenmuseum Dedicated to the Antwerp biplane. The exhibition features planes, but also authentic objects, documents and SV4 components. Open: SaturdaysSundays 2 pm – 5 pm, groups of 20 persons or more on appointment. Admission: 2,50 EUR, 1,25 EUR - 18 j. and 65+. Luchthavenlei in Deurne, www.stampe.be (Dutch, English). Stedelijk Prentenkabinet (Municipal Print Room) houses the important collection of old drawings and prints from Antwerp great masters from the 16th – 18th centuries. In addition the most prominent Antwerp artists are also represented in the modern and contemporary collection of prints and drawings. Separate department Iconography of Antwerp. Open: the reading room is open on workdays from 10 am – 4 pm. Closed on bank holidays. Admission: free. Vrijdagmarkt 22, phone: +32 3 221 14 59, e-mail: prentenkabinet@stad.antwerpen.be, www.plantin-moretus.be (Dutch, English). Vlaams Tram- en Autobusmuseum (Flemish tram and bus Museum) The history of public transport in Flanders from 1873 until today with a representative collection of 50 old trams and buses, photos, drawings and other documentation. Open: weekends and public holidays from April 15th until October 15th: 2 pm - 5.30 pm. Admission: 2,50 EUR, groups and 60+: 1,25 EUR, children under the age of 12 free if accompanied. Diksmuidelaan 42 in Berchem, phone: +32 3 322 44 62, fax: +32 3 322 72 42, e-mail: info@vlatam.be.

above: StampeVertongenmuseum below: Flemish Tram- en Autobusmuseum

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Volkskundemuseum Deurne (Deurne Folk Museum), local history and folklore. Open on Saturdays and Sundays 2 pm – 5 pm, groups on request. Admission 1,00 EUR. Koraalplaats 2 in Deurne, phone: +32 3 326 75 98.

HISTORICAL PROTECTED BUILDINGS

above: Central Station

below: Elzenveld

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Central Station* Koningin Astridplein, eclectic monument (1895-1905). Cogels-Osy neighbourhood Cogels-Osylei and the surrounding streets in the district of Berchem, imposing town houses in eclectic and art nouveau styles. Delbekehuis Keizerstraat 9; 1647. Elzenveld* Lange Gasthuisstraat 45, cultural and congress centre in the former buildings of the medieval St. Elisabeth Hospital, includes a 15th Century chapel (see: Chapels). Municipal Library Hendrik Conscience* Hendrik Conscienceplein 4, classicism (17th Century), rich collection of historic books, for reference only. To loan books: Permeke - Centrale der Openbare Bibliotheken*, Lange Nieuwstraat 105, library, reading rooms, record library, slide library, computer cafe, press and documentation, phone: +32 3 231 18 05. Former Court of Justice Britselei 55, eclectic monumental building, built in 1877. Handelsbeurs Twaalfmaandenstraat, reconstructed in 1872. The original building, ‘the mother of all exchanges’ dated from 1531. Help U Zelve Volksstraat 40, former liberal community centre, currently Steiner School and Hibernia School, art nouveau façade, Europa-Nostra Prize in 1995 (1901). Hessenhuis Falconrui 53/Hessenplein, renaissance (16th Century), originally a warehouse. Houten Gevel (Wooden Façade) Stoelstraat 11, 16th Cen-

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tury, restored in 1974. House Draecke Heilige Geeststraat 9, inner courtyard with 15th, 16th and 17th Century constructions including a patrician house and ‘pagaddertoren’ (lookout tower). House Guiette Populierenlaan 32, home of the painter Guiette, designed by Le Corbusier in 1926. Jordaenshuis (Jordaen’s House) Reyndersstraat 6, from 1641, Jacob Jordaens’ home with workshop, coach house and inner court. Royal Academy of Fine Arts Mutsaardstraat 31, founded in 1663 in a 15th Century Friar Minor’s monastery. Mercator-Ortelius house* Kloosterstraat 11-17, (16th – 17th Century) now the municipal Information Centre for Archeology and the Preservation of Monuments, open on Wednesday and Thursday 10 am – 5 pm, free. Inner courtyard is open on work days. Phone and fax: +32 3 232 92 08, e-mail: archeologie@stad.antwerpen.be, www.archeologie.antwerpen.be. National Bank Frankrijklei 166, eclectic building (1879) by architect Henry Beyaert. Osterriethhuis, Meir 85, patrician house, rococo (18th Century), now a bank. Oude Beurs* (Old Exchange) Hofstraat 15, inner courtyard with lookout tower dating back to the 16th Century. Prinsenhof Prinsstraat 13, 16th Century renaissance garden, 17th Century façade. Sint-Elisabethgasthuis (see: Elzenveld). Sint-Felix - FelixArchief* Oude Leeuwenrui 29, 19th Century warehouse. Municipal archives. Steen Steenplein, The Steen dates back to around the year 1200, which makes it the oldest building in Antwerp. It was part of a fortiﬁcation on the “aanwerp” or alluvial mound in the river bend.

above: City Hall

below: City Archive

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above: Zuiderpershuis

below: Beguinage

Town Hall* Grote Markt 1, Flemish-Italian Renaissance (1561-1564), interior rebuilt in the 19th Century, phone +32 3 338 80 20, email: onthaal.stadhuis@stad.antwerpen.be. Guided visits for individual visitors (always conditionally): Monday – Thursday 2 pm. Vlaeykensgang* entrance Oude Koornmarkt 16, 16th Century alleyway, popular spot for listening to carillon concerts. Voormalig Koninklijk Paleis (Former Royal Palace) Meir 50, patrician house, later royal palace, rococo (18th Century). Waterpoort (Water Gate, really Coninckxpoort or Coninckx Gate), Gillisplaats, Zuid district, 17th Century triumphal arch, design attributed to Rubens, erected here in 1936 after occupying two other sites, hence its nickname ‘the wandering gate’. Zuiderpershuis, Waalse Kaai 14, 19th-century hydraulic power station, the water pressure generated in the towers drove lock gates, cranes and lift bridges in the Zuiderdokken (South Docks, since ﬁlled in), but also distant plants. * = accessible to the public

CHURCHES Begijnhof en begijnhofkerk (Beguinage and beguinage church) The original St. Catherine’s Church belonging to the 16th Century beguinage was destroyed in 1799 and rebuilt in the 19th Century. Rodestraat 39, 9 -17 hrs, phone: +32 3 232 61 04. Christus Koningkerk (Christus Koning Church) Jan de Voslei/L. Strausstraat 3. Hoofdsynagoog (Chief Synagogue) 1893. Bouwmeesterstraat 7. OLV van Gratiekerk (Our Lady of Grace) (1877–1881) Frankrijklei 89. 128

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Sint-Antoniuskerk (St Anthony) (1910). Paardenmarkt 109. Sint-Augustinuskerk (St Augustine) Baroque church, 17th Century. Currently a centre for old music. Kammenstraat 73, only open during events, phone: +32 3 202 46 69. Sint-Joriskerk (St George) (1847-1853) Mechelseplein 22. Sint-Jozefkerk (St. Joseph) (1862-1867) Loosplaats. Sint-Laurentiuskerk (St. Laurentius) (1943-1944) Markgravelei 93. Sint-Michielskerk (St. Michael) (1883) Amerikalei 165-165 A. Verenigde Protestantse Kerk in België (United Protestant Church in Belgium) Early 17th Century. Lange Winkelstraat 5, phone: +32 3 231 02 56. Sint-Willibrorduskerk, (1886-1891) Kerkstraat 89.

above: Beguinage

CHAPELS Bourgondische Kerk (Burgundian Chapel), end 15th Century, Lange Nieuwstraat 31. Kapel van O.L.-Vrouw van Toevlucht (Chapel of the Birth of Our Lady of Succour) (Shoe Makers’ Chapel) 1477. Schoenmarkt 8. Only open for prayer Monday - Saturday 8 am – 1 pm and 1.30 pm – 5 pm. Keizerskapel (Imperial Chapel or St. Anna Chapel) 1513 – 1514. Keizerstraat 21, open on appointment, phone: +32 3 218 54 31. O.L.V.-kapel Elzenveld (Our Lady’s chapel Elzenveld) Built 1442-1460. Lange Gasthuisstraat 45, open on appointment at the info desk in Maagdenhuis (Virgin’s House) or by phone: +32 3 223 56 20. Sint-Niklaaskapel (St. Niklaas Chapel), early 15th Century, located next to the peaceful 15th-century St. Niklaaspleintje (square), now Van Campen puppet theatre; Lange Nieuwstraat 5.

below: Elzenveld

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13. How to get there BY CAR From Bergen op Zoom A12 or from AmsterdamBreda E19 Follow signs for Antwerpen Centrum (Merksem), exit 1. Continue to follow Antwerpen Centrum, travelling along: Groenendaallaan and Noorderlaan to Noorderplaats, which leads into the wide boulevard called the Italiëlei. • to reach the historic centre: Take the ﬁrst street to the right off the Italiëlei (= Koekensgracht). This brings you into the Ankerrui, then Oude Leeuwenrui and Brouwersvliet. At the second set of trafﬁc lights, turn left onto the quayside along the River Scheldt. You can park along the P-route Historisch Centrum. • to reach the Meir-Central Station-Zoo: Follow the boulevard and park in one of the following private car parks of the P-route Meir Universiteit, Centraal Station, Meir Schouwburg.

Central Station

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From Cologne-Aken-Luik-Hasselt E40 - E314 - E313 or from Eindhoven E34 follow the signs for Antwerpen Centrum (Borgerhout), exit 17. • to reach the historic centre: At the traffic lights, turn left and follow Noordersingel, carry straight on under the viaduct till you come to the fourth set of traffic lights. Follow Singel to the right and carry straight on to the T-junction with the Scheldt quays. Turn right at the traffic lights. You can park along the P-route Historisch Centrum. • to reach the Meir-Central Station-Zoo: At the traffic How to get there

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lights follow the Noordersingel to the left as far as the second set of traffic lights. Turn right there under the railway bridge, follow the Plantin en Moretuslei till the third set of traffic lights. Go straight on under the railway bridge till you come to the first set of traffic lights. Go straight on past the Municipal Park (Q. Matsijslei). Carry on straight till the second set of traffic lights at the junction with a wide boulevard. You can park in one of the following private car parks of the P-route Meir Universiteit, Centraal Station, Meir Schouwburg or Centrum. From Paris - Brussels E19 When approaching Antwerp you drive through the Craeybeckx-tunnel. Take the left lane towards AntwerpenCentrum and drive through the tunnel until the traffic lights of the Singel. • to reach the historic centre: Follow direction Scheldt to the left until the T-junction with the Scheldt quays. Turn right at the traffic lights. You can park along the P-route Historisch Centrum. • to reach the Meir-Central Station-Zoo: Carry straight on. Pass the Singel into the Gen. Lemanstraat until the traffic lights and turn right along the King Albertpark (Prins Albertlei). Turn left at the next traffic lights. Carry on straight on the Mechelsesteenweg until you reach the fourth set of traffic lights on the boulevard. You park in one of the following private car parks of the P-route Meir Universiteit, Centraal Station, Meir Schouwburg or Centrum.

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From Brussels A12 • to reach the historic centre: Follow Antwerpen-Centrum through the Jan De Vostunnel. Follow direction Scheldt to the left until the T-junction with the Scheldtquays. Turn right at the traffic lights. You can park along the P-route Historische Centrum. • to reach the Meir-Central Station-Zoo: Take on the viaduct the middle lane and once down the viaduct take the right lane towards Wilrijk. Carry on straight on the Jan Van Rijswijcklaan until the sixth set of traffic lights. You turn right along the King Albertpark (Prins Albertlei). Turn left at the next traffic lights. Carry on straight on the Mechelsesteenweg until you reach the fourth set of traffic lights on the boulevard. You park in one of the following private car parks of the P-route Meir Universiteit, Centraal Station, Meir Schouwburg or Centrum. From Lille - Kortrijk - Ghent E17 or Ostend - Bruges E40, via Ghent E17 Immediately after the Kennedy Tunnel, follow exit 5A Antwerpen-Centrum. • to reach the historic centre: Follow direction Scheldt to the left until the T-junction with the Scheldt quays. Turn right at the traffic lights. You can park along the P-route Historisch Centrum. • to reach the Meir-Central Station-Zoo: Follow the boulevard straight on. You can park in one of the following private car parks of the P-route Meir Universiteit, Centraal Station, Meir Schouwburg or Centrum.

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PARKING FACILITIES Historic centre Scheldekaai Noord: Jordaenskaai Scheldekaai Zuid: Ernest Van Dijckkaai Grote Markt: Ernest van Dijckkaai 3

Central Station

Centre Brabo: Kammenstraat 2 Groenplaats: Groenplaats Rubens: Lombardenvest 24 Meir: Eiermarkt 33 Lombardia: Lombardenvest 11 Oudaen: Oudaan 3 Cammerpoorte: Nationalestraat 38 Sint-Jansplein: Sint-Jansplein Central Station – Zoo Nova: Van Schoonhovenstraat 25 Breidel: Breidelstraat 15 De Keyser: Van Ertbornstraat 13 Diamant: Appelmansstraat 25 Roosevelt: Franklin Rooseveltplaats Century Center: Vestingstraat Quellin: Quellinstraat Meir – University Van Dijck: Eikenstraat 9 Sint Jacob: Sint Jacobsmarkt 81 Meir – Municipal Theatre Arenberg: Oudevaartplaats 2 Horta: Hopland 24

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Hopland: Hopland 38 Stadsschouwburg: Meistraat 4 Inno: Hopland 45 Berchem Station Berchem station: B.E. Ryckaertsplein

BY TRAIN (NMBS) Both international trains and inter-city trains stop in Antwerpen-Centraal and Antwerpen-Berchem stations. Every hours 15 IC, IR or L-trains stop from/to Antwerp. The Thalys train, which runs between Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam stops in Antwerpen-Berchem. When visiting Antwerp you can take advantage of the commercial allin formulas of Belgian rail company NMBS. These “B-Day Trips” include a train ticket plus entry to one attraction, as well as other transport. Train passes, weekend tickets or group rates (from 15 persons) are also interesting options. This information is also available on the NMBS website (www.nmbs.be) or by phone on +32 2 528 28 28, www.b-rail.be (Dutch, French, German, English).

Busparking

BY COACH Follow the same route as given for cars: • destination historic centre: Coach park Quay 19 The stops of De Lijn direction N (stop at Suikerrui/Steenplein ) and direction S (stop at Suikerrui/Ernest Van Dyckkaai) may be used as hop on/ hop off for max. 10 minutes. • destination Meir – Central Station – Zoo: Coach parking lane in Van Straelenstraat. The bus gate at the corner of How to get there

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Kon. Astridplein / height Carnotstraat can be used as a stop for max. 10 minutes.

BY BUS AND TRAM (DE LIJN) Arrivals from the Provinces of East-Flanders and Antwerp: • Koningin Astridplein, in front of Central Station-Zoo (buses 81 through 86) • Sint-Jansvliet (bus 290) • Franklin-Rooseveltplaats (all other bus lines) More information on public transport on +32 3 218 14 06 and www.delijn.be (Dutch).

BY AIR Via Zaventem airport (Brussels): Take the express bus to Antwerp, which stops in front of the Holiday Inn Crown Plaza hotel, or at its ﬁnal destination, Central Station at the height of Keyserlei 45. (departure and arrival hours: www. brusselsairport.be (Dutch, French, English)) Via the airport of Deurne, www.antwerpairport.be (Dutch, English): Take bus 14 to its ﬁnal destination Pelikaanstraat, next to Central Station.

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14. Information City ANTWERP TOURISM & CONGRESS Phone: +32 3 232 01 03 Fax: +32 3 231 19 37 Fax: +32 3 338 95 97 (guides) e-mail: visit@stad.antwerpen.be www.antwerpen.be (Dutch, French, German, English) Info desk – Grote Markt Grote Markt 13, BE-2000 Antwerp Info desk - Astridplein Central Station - ground ﬂoor, BE-2018 Antwerp Opening hours: Mondays - Saturdays 9 am – 5.45 pm, Sundays and bank holidays 9 am - 4.45 pm. Closed on January 1st and December 25th. By phone we can be reached from Monday to Saturday, not on Sunday and bank holidays.

Tourism Antwerp, info desk Main square

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The address of choice for all tourist information about Antwerp and its sights, events, cultural activities, restaurants and facilities for an overnight stay. We will even book your hotel room, ticket for an exhibition or your city guide. You will also ﬁnd a number of useful information brochures on sale, like suggested walks, bike and car itineraries, concise guides and your 10-journey ticket or individual day ticket for public transport (De Lijn). Also the meeting point for visiting groups and their assigned city guide. Information

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PROSPEKTA VZW Grote Markt 13, BE-2000 Antwerp phone: +32 3 338 95 85 – fax: +32 3 338 95 97 e-mail: balie@infocultuur.be www.infocultuur.be (Dutch) Opening hours: Tueday - Friday 10 am - 5.45 pm, Saturday from noon – 5 pm. Closed on Mondays, Sundays and public holidays.

City Store

Cultural information desk, which sells tickets for theatre performances and concerts, in the same location as the info desk of Antwerp Tourism & Congress.

purchases of typically Antwerp products. This is also where the Infolijn stad Antwerpen is based. The city information hotline will provide all information about municipal administration, by phone (+32 3 221 13 33) or by e-mail (info@ stad.antwerpen).

Trafﬁc information VLAAMSE INFOLIJN (FLEMISH INFORMATION HOTLINE) phone 0800 3 02 01 (work days 9 am – 7 pm) www.vlaamseinfolijn.be (Dutch) City Store

Free information about trafﬁc problems on your route.

ANTWERP TOURISM & CONGRESS Grote Markt 15, BE-2000 Antwerp Tel. : +32 3 338 81 81 Fax : +32 3 338 81 32 e-mail : mice@stad.antwerpen.be www.antwerpen.be (Dutch, French, German, English) Promotes Antwerp as a destination for conventions with free of charge service and advices to organisers of conventions and meetings.

MOBILITY WEBSITES The following website www.antwerken.be (Dutch, French, German, English) provide information about the Masterplan for Mobility Antwerp with regard to all the major infrastructure and road works in and around Antwerp, such as the construction works on the Antwerp Ring road, the Leien, Singel etc.

Other

STADSWINKEL / CITY STORE Grote Markt 11, BE-2000 Antwerp Tuesday - Saturday 11 am - 5.30 pm e-mail: stadswinkel@stad.antwerpen.be www.antwerpen.be (Dutch) For useful information regarding the activities, the plans and realizations of the City of Antwerp, reservations or 140

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DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS AND RECREATION Desguinlei 17 – 19, BE-2018 Antwerp phone: +32 3 259 23 68 of +32 3 259 23 55 fax: +32 3 259 23 60 e-mail: info.sport@stad.antwerpen.be http://sport.antwerpen.be (Dutch)

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