Saint Rumbold's Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece in Mechelen
Discover Saint Rumbold's Cathedral in Mechelen: a majestic Gothic landmark with a rich history, stunning art, and panoramic city views.
Saint Rumbold's Cathedral, a symbol of Mechelen, stands as a testament to Gothic architectural brilliance. Construction began in the 13th century, continuing for over 300 years. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Rumbold, an Irish missionary and martyr whose relics are believed to be buried within its walls. The most striking feature is its 97-meter-high belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although originally intended to reach 167 meters, construction was halted due to financial constraints. The tower served as a watchtower and fire alarm, housing city documents for centuries. Visitors can climb the 514 steps for panoramic views of Mechelen. Inside, the cathedral showcases a blend of Gothic and Baroque styles. It houses 26 altarpieces by Flemish artists, including Anthony van Dyck's 'Christ on the Cross'. The high altar, created by Lucas Faydherbe in 1665, is a Baroque masterpiece. The cathedral also features a magnificent pipe organ, one of Belgium's largest. Throughout its history, Saint Rumbold's Cathedral has faced challenges, including religious wars, iconoclasm, bombings during World War II, and a fire in 1972. Yet, it has always been restored, a symbol of resilience for the people of Mechelen. Today, it remains the metropolitan archiepiscopal cathedral of Belgium and a must-see destination for travelers.
Local tips
- Climb the 514 steps of the Saint Rumbold's tower for rewarding panoramic views of Mechelen and the surrounding area.
- Visit on a Saturday morning to experience the local market in the Grote Markt, the square surrounding the cathedral.
- Check the schedule for carillon concerts, as the cathedral tower houses two complete carillons.
A brief summary to Saint Rumbold's Cathedral
- Onder-Den-Toren 12, Mechelen, Arrondissement of Mechelen, 2800, BE
- +32470063454
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the Grote Markt (main square), the cathedral is easily accessible on foot. Simply walk towards the towering belfry, which is visible from most points in the city center. The entrance is located on the Onder-Den-Toren side of the building. No cost involved.
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Public Transport
If arriving by train at Mechelen Station, take bus line 1 towards the city center. Get off at the Brusselpoort stop, which is a short walk from the cathedral. Alternatively, it's about a 15-20 minute walk from the station to the cathedral. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2.5.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Mechelen, including at Mechelen Station. A taxi ride from the station to the cathedral takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is €8.70, which includes the first 2 kilometers, and then €2.60 per kilometer after that.
