Terminal Kleine Schepen: A Glimpse into Antwerp's Maritime Past

Explore the historical Terminal Kleine Schepen in Antwerp's Zuid district, a reminder of the city's maritime past and a gateway to its vibrant cultural scene.

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Terminal kleine schepen

The Terminal Kleine Schepen, located near the Zuidersluis in Antwerp, offers a unique window into the city's historical maritime activities. Once a bustling hub for inland navigation, particularly for smaller vessels, the terminal area provides a tangible connection to Antwerp's rich port history. Although the original function of the terminal has evolved, the site retains remnants of its past, including the preserved lock entrance. Today, the area serves as a reminder of Antwerp's strategic importance as a port city and its continuous adaptation to changing maritime needs. Visitors can explore the surroundings, imagine the lively activity of bygone days, and appreciate the blend of historical elements with modern urban development. The terminal is a great place to start exploring the southern parts of Antwerp.

A brief summary to Terminal kleine schepen

Zuidersluis, Zuid,2000, Antwerp, 2000, BE

Local tips

Take a walk along the Scheldt River quays for scenic views and a feel of Antwerp's maritime atmosphere.
Visit the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA) to experience the city's modern art scene.
Explore the Zuid district's restaurants and cafes for a taste of local cuisine and a vibrant social scene.

Getting There

Walking

From the city center (e.g., Grote Markt), head south towards the Zuid district. Follow signs for 'Zuidersluis' or 'Museum van Hedendaagse Kunst Antwerpen (M HKA)'. The Terminal Kleine Schepen is located near the intersection of Waalsekaai and Cockerillkaai, a 20-30 minute walk. Orientation points include the Scheldt River and the modern buildings of the courthouse. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

From Antwerp Central Station, take tram lines 4 or 7 towards the Zuid. Get off at the 'Museum' stop. From there, walk approximately 5 minutes towards the Scheldt River. The Terminal Kleine Schepen is near the Zuidersluis. A single tram ticket costs approximately €2.50 if purchased in advance via the De Lijn app or at a vending machine; purchasing on board may be slightly more expensive.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Antwerp Central Station to the Terminal Kleine Schepen typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Provide the driver with the address 'Zuidersluis, Antwerpen' or direct them towards the Museum of Contemporary Art (M HKA) in the Zuid district.
Driving

Driving to the Terminal Kleine Schepen, navigate towards the Zuid district. Parking in the immediate vicinity is limited and can be expensive. Consider using public parking garages in the area, such as those near the courthouse or along the Scheldt quays. Parking rates typically range from €2-€3 per hour. Be aware of Antwerp's Low Emission Zone (LEZ); check if your vehicle meets the entry requirements to avoid fines. Alternatively, consider using a Park and Ride (P+R) facility on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport to the Zuid.

Discover more about Terminal kleine schepen

The Terminal Kleine Schepen, situated near the Zuidersluis in Antwerp's vibrant Zuid district, provides a compelling glimpse into the city's maritime past. This location, once a vital component of Antwerp's inland waterway network, played a significant role in facilitating trade and transportation via smaller vessels. While the terminal no longer functions in its original capacity, the area retains historical elements that evoke a sense of its bustling past and offer visitors a unique perspective on Antwerp's evolution as a major port city. Originally constructed in the late 19th century as part of the Zuidersluis complex, the Terminal Kleine Schepen was designed to accommodate smaller inland ships navigating the Scheldt River and the Zuiderdokken (Southern Docks). These docks, completed in 1881, included the Steendok, Schippersdok, and Kooldok, all crucial for handling various types of cargo. The Zuidersluis, acting as a lock, connected these docks to the Scheldt, enabling ships to bypass tidal variations and maintain consistent water levels within the dock system. The Zuidersluis complex was officially inaugurated on July 26, 1885, by King Leopold II and Queen Maria Hendrika, marking a significant milestone in Antwerp's port development. The quays were later extended southward between 1897 and 1903, further enhancing the port's capacity. The Terminal Kleine Schepen, as part of this infrastructure, facilitated the movement of goods and materials, contributing to Antwerp's economic growth. However, as maritime technology advanced and larger vessels became more prevalent, the Zuiderdokken and the Zuidersluis gradually lost their prominence. By the mid-20th century, the docks were deemed too small for modern shipping needs, leading to their closure in 1967 and subsequent infilling in 1969. The Terminal Kleine Schepen ceased its operations, and the area underwent significant transformation. Despite these changes, remnants of the terminal's past can still be observed. The entrance to the Zuidersluis, though no longer functional, remains partially preserved, offering a tangible link to the site's maritime heritage. The outline of the former lock is visible in the quay walls, providing a sense of the area's original layout. These historical markers serve as a reminder of the terminal's role in Antwerp's port history. Today, the area surrounding the Terminal Kleine Schepen has evolved into a dynamic urban space. The Zuid district is known for its blend of residential, commercial, and cultural activities. The quays along the Scheldt River have been revitalized, offering recreational spaces, walking paths, and panoramic views of the waterfront. The area is also home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and art galleries, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. One notable landmark near the Terminal Kleine Schepen is the Hof van Beroep (Court of Appeal), built in 1973 on the site of the filled-in Zuidersluis. While the court building itself may not be architecturally remarkable, its presence underscores the area's transformation from a maritime hub to a modern urban center. There have been discussions about potentially excavating the Zuidersluis and redeveloping the Zuiderdokken into a modern marina, but these plans remain uncertain. Exploring the Terminal Kleine Schepen and its surroundings offers a unique opportunity to appreciate Antwerp's maritime heritage within a contemporary urban context. Visitors can stroll along the quays, observe the historical remnants of the lock entrance, and imagine the bustling activity of ships and cargo that once characterized the area. The site serves as a testament to Antwerp's enduring connection to the sea and its ability to adapt to changing economic and technological landscapes. Furthermore, the Terminal Kleine Schepen is strategically located near other attractions in the Zuid district. The Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA) is a short distance away, showcasing a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs catering to a variety of tastes. For those interested in maritime history, the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) is another notable destination in Antwerp. Located in the Eilandje district, the MAS offers comprehensive exhibits on the city's port history, its relationship with the Scheldt River, and its global connections. A visit to the MAS provides a broader understanding of Antwerp's maritime heritage and complements the experience of exploring the Terminal Kleine Schepen. In conclusion, the Terminal Kleine Schepen offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors to Antwerp. By exploring the site and its surroundings, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the city's maritime past, its dynamic present, and its ongoing evolution as a major European port. The blend of historical remnants, modern urban development, and cultural attractions makes the Terminal Kleine Schepen a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in Antwerp's rich heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

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Unmissable attractions to see

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MoMu - Fashion Museum Antwerp

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Jerom Restaurant

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Terminal Kleine Schepen: A Glimpse into Antwerp's Maritime Past

A brief summary to Terminal kleine schepen

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Terminal kleine schepen

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Terminal kleine schepen

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Scheldt Docks South

Baron Lambermont Statue

Peter De Grote Monument

Het Bootje (Art Nouveau parel)

Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites

Van Kempen Rudolf

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp

Antwerp-tuktuk

Regenboog zebra

Statue Peter Paul Rubens

Pieter Appelmans monument

Handschoenmarkt

Nello & Patrasche Statue

Museum De Reede

Put Quinten Matsijs

Unmissable attractions to see

FOMU - Photo Museum Antwerp

M HKA - Museum of Contemporary Art

Waterpoort

KMSKA - Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp

Gedenksteen John Wilms

Discover-Antwerpen

Monument Schelde Vrij

CoStA, Cultural Centre Sint-Andries Antwerpen

St. Andrew's Church

Plantinkaai

WoodCutter Antwerp - Urban Axe Throwing

Stripmuur Suske en Wiske

Voetgangerstunnel naar rechteroever

St. Anna’s Tunnel

MoMu - Fashion Museum Antwerp

Essential places to dine

Maven

Umami

Den abattoir Asian fusion

L'amitié

Elsie's Ethiopisch en Eritrees eethuis Antwerpen

Restaurant Mich

Kommilfoo

Da Vinci

Salt

Jerom Restaurant

Nonsolote

Barriq

A’Sur restaurant

Mesa

Fiskebar

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Depesche Belgium

Chicken Rhythm

Vela d'Or Boutique

Ann Demeulemeester Store Antwerp

Enes

Atelier D'Anvers Bvba

Bongo Shop Antwerpen

Smart & Co Nv

Mandragora

Baby Beluga Store

SeventyOne

Oxfam Boutique

Labels Inc.

Kaai bags

Kloosterstraat

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

De Vedet

Bar Burbure