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DIVA: Antwerp's Sparkling Diamond, Jewelry, and Silver Museum

Discover Antwerp's glittering heritage at DIVA, the museum for diamonds, jewellery, and silver, showcasing centuries of craftsmanship and trade in the world's diamond capital.

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DIVA, located in the heart of Antwerp, celebrates the city's rich history as a world-renowned diamond and precious metal center. This museum, a merger of the former Diamond Museum and Silver Museum, showcases over 500 years of Antwerp's glittering past. Explore themed rooms filled with diamonds, jewelry, and silverware, learning about the journey from mine to masterpiece. Discover the artistry of diamond cutting and silversmithing through interactive exhibits and captivating displays. With its prime location near the Grote Markt, DIVA offers a dazzling experience that connects visitors to Antwerp's legacy of luxury and craftsmanship. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the history, trade, and artistry of diamonds, jewelry and silver.

A brief summary to DIVA, museum voor diamant, juwelen en zilver

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid potential queues.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be more crowded.
  • Take advantage of the audio guide, available in multiple languages, to enhance your understanding of the exhibits and Antwerp's diamond history.
  • Combine your visit to DIVA with a walk through the nearby Diamond Quarter and Grote Markt to fully immerse yourself in Antwerp's rich history and culture.
  • Check the DIVA website for workshops and special events, such as silversmithing demonstrations, to add an interactive element to your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    DIVA is easily accessible via public transport. From Antwerpen-Centraal (Central Station), take tram lines 3, 5, 9, or 15 to the Groenplaats stop. From there, walk towards the Cathedral of Our Lady, then towards the Grote Markt. Continue towards Het Steen castle; DIVA will be on your right. A single tram fare costs approximately €3. Alternatively, from Antwerpen-Zuid (Antwerp South) station, take tram 4 or bus 181 or 183 to Groenplaats and follow the same walking directions. Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan to use public transport extensively.

  • Walking

    DIVA is located in the heart of Antwerp's historic center and is easily reachable on foot from many central locations. From the Grote Markt, walk towards the Scheldt river and Het Steen castle. DIVA will be on your right-hand side, a short walk from the Grote Markt. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on your starting point. This is a free and pleasant way to reach the museum, allowing you to take in the sights of the city.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Antwerp. A taxi ride from Antwerpen-Centraal Station to DIVA will take approximately 5 minutes, costing between €12-€15. Be sure to specify 'DIVA museum, Suikerrui' as your destination. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in the city center, especially during peak hours.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in the Grote Markt or Groenplaats car parks. However, parking in the city center can be limited and expensive. Expect to pay around €3.80 per 30 minutes in the red zone. Consider using a park-and-ride facility outside the city center and taking public transport to DIVA. Note that Antwerp is a low-emission zone, so check your vehicle's compliance before entering the city. You can also use online platforms like Mobypark to reserve parking spaces in advance.

  • Ferry

    DeWaterbus offers a convenient way to reach DIVA. Take the ferry to the 'Steenplein' stop, which is within walking distance of DIVA. Check the prices and timetables at www.dewaterbus.be/en. A single ticket costs around €3.50. From Steenplein, walk towards the Grote Markt and then towards Het Steen castle; DIVA will be on your right.

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Discover more about DIVA, museum voor diamant, juwelen en zilver

DIVA, the museum for diamonds, jewellery, and silver, stands as a testament to Antwerp's enduring legacy as the world's diamond capital. Situated a stone's throw from the Grote Markt, in a district that has been home to silversmiths and jewellers for over 500 years, DIVA offers a sparkling journey through the history, craftsmanship, and trade of these precious materials. The museum's origins lie in the merger of two institutions: the former Diamond Museum, which closed in 2012, and the Silver Museum, which shuttered its doors in 2014. In May 2018, these collections were united under the banner of DIVA, creating a comprehensive showcase of Antwerp's glittering heritage. The location itself is steeped in history; from the 15th century, the Grote Markt and surrounding streets were the place to be for those seeking objects made of gold, silver, and precious stones. 'A Brilliant Story,' the museum's refurbished permanent exhibition, invites visitors to explore the different stages of a piece of jewellery or silverware, from the mine to the finished product. Through interactive displays, visitors can learn how diamonds are mined, how silversmiths work, and the art and uses of these beautiful objects. The exhibition features over 650 diamonds, jewellery, and silver objects, dating from the 15th century to the present day. DIVA's collection is displayed across several themed rooms, each offering a unique perspective on the world of diamonds and precious metals. The 'Room of Wonder' sets the stage, showcasing objects from around the globe and highlighting Antwerp's historical role in the production and distribution of luxury goods. Here, visitors can learn about the city's illustrious past, when it led the way in the trade of silverware, jewellery, precious stones, and exotic curiosities. The 'Atelier' provides a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind these exquisite objects. Demonstrations of diamond cutting and silversmithing bring the art to life, while interactive exhibits allow visitors to try their hand at these intricate skills. The museum also boasts a library and educational space, offering workshops and resources for those who wish to delve deeper into the world of diamonds and silver. Antwerp's connection to the diamond trade dates back to the 15th century, when the city emerged as a key trading center due to its strategic port location. Merchants from around the world flocked to Antwerp to take advantage of its robust trade networks and import rough diamonds. Over time, the city evolved into a center for cutting and polishing diamonds, with the 'Antwerp cut' becoming a benchmark for quality. Today, Antwerp remains the world's leading diamond center, with an estimated 84% of the world's rough diamonds passing through the city. The diamond industry contributes significantly to Antwerp's economy, employing around 34,000 people and generating an annual turnover of billions of dollars. The city's Diamond Quarter, located near the Central Station, is a vibrant hub of diamond dealers, traders, and artisans. DIVA not only showcases the history and craftsmanship of diamonds and silver but also explores contemporary issues such as urban mining, upcycling, and lab-grown diamonds. The museum aims to connect Antwerp with all facets of its brilliant past, while also looking towards the future of the industry. Accessibility is a key consideration at DIVA. The museum is fully accessible to wheelchairs and walkers, with lifts providing access to all exhibition rooms. Adapted toilets are available, and the museum offers wheelchairs and folding chairs for visitors' use. Whether you're a seasoned gemologist or simply curious about the world of diamonds, DIVA offers a captivating and informative experience. From its dazzling collection to its interactive exhibits and historical context, DIVA is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Antwerp.

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