Schelde Vrij Monument: A Symbol of Antwerp's Maritime Freedom
Discover the Schelde Vrij monument in Antwerp, a powerful symbol of the city's maritime freedom and a testament to its rich history, located in the vibrant Marnixplaats.
The Schelde Vrij monument, standing proudly on Marnixplaats in Antwerp, commemorates the crucial 1863 settlement that ended Dutch control over the Scheldt River, a lifeline for the city's maritime trade. Designed by Jan Jacob Winders and inaugurated in 1873, this 20-meter-tall monument is a bombastic display of neo-Flemish Renaissance style, featuring Neptune, Mercury, and the city maiden of Antwerp. More than just a historical marker, it represents Antwerp's resilience and its enduring connection to the sea. The monument is surrounded by an iron fence and cast-iron streetlamps, creating a picturesque setting. Marnixplaats itself is a vibrant square with numerous restaurants and bars, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. A visit to the Schelde Vrij monument offers a glimpse into Antwerp's rich history and its unwavering spirit.
A brief summary to Monument Schelde Vrij
- Marnixplaats, Antwerp, 2000, BE
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the evening to see the monument illuminated, creating a stunning visual experience.
- Explore the surrounding Marnixplaats for a variety of dining and drinking options.
- Take a stroll along the streets radiating from Marnixplaats, each named in honor of the Scheldt's liberation.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Marnixplaats is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus and tram lines stop nearby. From Antwerpen-Centraal station, take tram line 1 or 4 towards the city center and get off at the 'Tropisch Instituut' stop, which is a short 3-minute walk to Marnixplaats. A single De Lijn ticket costs €2.50 and is valid for 60 minutes, allowing transfers between trams and buses.
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Walking
From the Grote Markt (Antwerp's central square), the walk to Marnixplaats is approximately 20-25 minutes. Head south along Groenplaats, then continue onto Nationalestraat. Follow Nationalestraat until you reach Marnixplaats. The monument is located in the center of the square.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Antwerpen-Centraal station to Marnixplaats will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Several ride-sharing services operate in Antwerp, including Uber and Bolt.
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Driving
Driving to Marnixplaats is possible, but parking can be challenging. Street parking is available in the surrounding area, but it is often limited and subject to fees (€2.30 for the first hour, €5.70 for two hours, paid Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 22:00). Several paid parking garages are located within walking distance, such as Q-Park Kooldok, approximately 400 meters away. Pre-booking a parking spot is recommended, especially during peak hours.
Discover more about Monument Schelde Vrij
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