Cathedral of Our Lady: Antwerp's Gothic Masterpiece
Discover Antwerp's iconic Cathedral of Our Lady: a Gothic masterpiece housing Rubens's art, soaring architecture, and centuries of history in the heart of the city.
Dominating Antwerp's skyline, the Cathedral of Our Lady is a breathtaking example of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the city's rich history. Construction began in 1352 and continued for nearly 170 years, resulting in the tallest church tower in the Benelux region, soaring to 123 meters. Inside, visitors are awestruck by the soaring ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and the numerous works of art, including masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens. The cathedral has witnessed periods of glory and turmoil, surviving fires, iconoclasm, and French occupation, each leaving its mark on this magnificent structure. Today, it stands as a testament to Antwerp's resilience and artistic heritage, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its beauty and significance. A visit promises an immersive experience into the heart of Antwerp's cultural identity.
A brief summary to Cathedral of Our Lady
- Groenplaats 21, Antwerp, Antwerp, 2000, BE
- +3232139951
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral's history, art, and architecture.
- Climb the north tower for panoramic views of Antwerp (check availability and book in advance).
- Dress respectfully when visiting the cathedral (shoulders and knees covered).
- Check the cathedral's website for the schedule of services, concerts, and other events.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Grote Markt (main market square), walk south towards the Groenplaats. The Cathedral of Our Lady is located on the east side of the Groenplaats. Look for the towering spire; it's impossible to miss. The entrance is on the Handschoenmarkt, a small square directly in front of the cathedral's main facade.
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Public Transport
The Groenplaats is a major public transport hub in Antwerp. Numerous tram and bus lines stop here, including trams 3, 4, 5, 9, and 15, as well as buses 22, 180, 181, 182, and 183. From the Groenplaats tram/bus stop, the Cathedral of Our Lady is a very short walk. Exit the station onto the Groenplaats and walk towards the large church. The entrance is on the Handschoenmarkt. A single ride on a tram or bus costs €2.50 if purchased via SMS by texting 'DL' to 4884 (valid for 1 hour) or €3.00 if purchased on the bus/tram. A day pass costs €7.50 via SMS ('DLD' to 4884, valid for 24 hours).
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Antwerp. Simply ask to be dropped off at the Groenplaats or the Handschoenmarkt. From there, the cathedral entrance is easily visible. A short taxi ride from Antwerp Central Station to the Cathedral will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic.
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Driving
Driving directly to the Cathedral is not recommended due to the pedestrian zone in the immediate vicinity. However, several underground parking garages are located within a short walking distance, including Parking Groenplaats (Groenplaats 1), Parking Grote Markt (Ernest Van Dijckkaai 3), and Parking Brabo (Kammenstraat 2). Parking rates typically range from €2.50 to €3.80 per hour. Consider using a Park and Ride (P+R) outside the city center and taking public transport to avoid traffic and higher parking costs in the city center. Note that Antwerp's city center is a low-emission zone; check if your vehicle meets the requirements before entering.
Discover more about Cathedral of Our Lady
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