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Saint Charles Borromeo Church: A Baroque Masterpiece

Experience the grandeur of Baroque architecture at Antwerp's Saint Charles Borromeo Church, a historical and artistic gem on Hendrik Conscienceplein.

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The Saint Charles Borromeo Church in Antwerp, Belgium, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Built by the Jesuits in the early 17th century, it features a dynamic facade and opulent interior, once enhanced by ceiling paintings by Peter Paul Rubens.

A brief summary to Saint Charles Borromeo Church

  • Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the Sunday Artists' Mass for a unique experience with choir and musicians.
  • Explore the underground canals ('De Ruien') for a glimpse into Antwerp's hidden waterways.
  • Check out the Lace Museum, open on Wednesdays, included with the church admission.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Antwerp's Grote Markt, walk northeast towards Hendrik Conscienceplein. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. The church is located on the east side of the square.

  • Public Transport

    From Antwerp Central Station, take tram line 3, 5, 9, or 15 to Groenplaats. From Groenplaats, walk northeast for about 5 minutes to Hendrik Conscienceplein. The church is located on the east side of the square.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Antwerp. A short taxi ride from Antwerp Central Station to Hendrik Conscienceplein typically costs between €11 and €28, depending on the time of day and traffic. Taxi fares generally start at €2.95 during the day and €5.45 at night, with a price of €2 per kilometer.

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Discover more about Saint Charles Borromeo Church

Located on Hendrik Conscienceplein, the Saint Charles Borromeo Church stands as a testament to Baroque artistry in Antwerp. Constructed between 1615 and 1621 by the Jesuit order, the church, initially named after St. Ignatius of Loyola, showcases a facade inspired by the Gesù Church in Rome. The church was later rededicated to Saint Charles Borromeo in 1779. The church's construction occurred during the Counter-Reformation, with the Antwerp Jesuits aiming to create a 'heaven on earth'. Peter Paul Rubens significantly contributed to the church's design and artistry, including original ceiling paintings. A fire in 1718 destroyed these paintings, leading to subsequent restoration efforts. Inside, visitors can admire the ornate Baroque style, featuring the Lady Chapel with its colorful marble and sculptures. The high altar has a unique rotating mechanism to display different paintings throughout the liturgical year. The church also houses a collection of lace and textiles. Visitors can explore the crypt, sacristy, and subterranean canals, known as 'De Ruien'.

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