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Opsinjoorke: Mechelen's Mischievous Mascot

Discover Opsinjoorke in Mechelen: A bronze statue with a story as rich and playful as the folklore it represents.

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Opsinjoorke is a bronze statue located in Mechelen, Belgium, representing a mischievous character from local folklore. The statue depicts a stout man, symbolizing a 'foul bridegroom' or an eternally drunk and unfaithful husband. The statue is a reminder of Mechelen's rich history and cultural traditions.

A brief summary to Opsinjoorke

  • Sint-Romboutskerkhof 4, Mechelen, 2800, BE
  • 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 the Opsinjoorke statue on the Grote Markt to learn about the legend.
  • Look for the Opsinjoorke flags flying over the center of Mechelen.
  • Explore the Park-Sint-Romboutskerkhof, where a yellow Opsinjoorke XXL statue is located.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Opsinjoorke is located at Sint-Romboutskerkhof 4, in the heart of Mechelen. From the Grote Markt, walk north towards the St. Rumbold's Cathedral. The statue is a short walk from the cathedral, near the Park-Sint-Romboutskerkhof. The area is pedestrian-friendly with cobblestone streets. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Mechelen Station, take bus lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 25, 30, 50, 86, 306 or 508. Get off at the Mechelen Grote Markt stop. From there, it's a short walk to Sint-Romboutskerkhof and the Opsinjoorke statue. A single bus fare within Mechelen typically costs around €2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Mechelen. A short trip from Mechelen Station to Sint-Romboutskerkhof would typically cost between €8-€12. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Opsinjoorke

Opsinjoorke is more than just a statue; it's a symbol deeply embedded in Mechelen's identity. The bronze figure, found near Sint-Romboutskerkhof, represents a 'Sotscop' or 'foul bridegroom' from the 17th century, embodying the image of an unfaithful, drunken husband. In the past, neighbors would symbolically punish such men by tossing a doll representing them into the air using a large linen sheet. The original doll, created in 1647 by Valentyn van Lanscroon, was initially called 'Sotscop'. Over time, the name evolved, and in 1775, an incident during a religious procession led to its current name. The doll fell from the sheet, landing near a man from Antwerp, who was then accused of trying to steal it. As 'Sinjoor' was a nickname for people from Antwerp, the doll became known as Opsinjoorke. Today, the statue serves as a reminder of Mechelen's folklore and history. A yellow Opsinjoorke XXL statue was placed in front of the Sint-Romboutskathedraal in 2015 as a play object. The Opsinjoorke continues to be a figure of local pride, embodying the city's unique cultural heritage.

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