The Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) is the largest Gothic church in Belgium, begun in 1352 and built over roughly 170 years; its 123-metre spire is the tallest church tower in the Benelux. It is famous above all for four masterpieces by the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, and its belfry is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the 'Belfries of Belgium and France' (1999). As of 2026 it is open to visitors, with QR-code audio descriptions at the artworks. It remains an active place of worship, so it rewards a visit that combines art appreciation with quiet respect.
Rubens' 'The Descent from the Cross' (1612β14) β the triptych widely regarded as his finest work here
Rubens' 'The Raising of the Cross' (1610β11) β the oldest and largest of the altarpieces
'The Assumption of the Virgin' (1626) above the high altar
The 123-metre spire and Gothic interior (125 pillars, 55 stained-glass windows)
The great bell 'Karolus' (cast 1507) and the tower's carillon
Good to know
CautionThe Handschoenmarkt square in front of the cathedral and the area around Central Station are tourist-heavy; pickpocketing and bag theft occur. Wear your bag in front and keep it zipped.
SafetyBe especially careful with your belongings on crowded trams and the pre-metro, and don't keep your wallet or phone in a back pocket.
RulesVisiting can be restricted during Mass and services, and beyond the January 1 closure there are reduced-hours and closed days in summer and late December, so confirm the day's hours on the official site before you go.
MannersThis is a sacred space where worship takes place. Move quietly, remove hats, and refrain from photography during Mass β never use flash.
RulesAdults pay admission, but under-18s and residents of Antwerp Province enter free, while students, over-60s, visitors with disabilities and groups of 20+ get a discount. Prices can change, so verify the latest rate.
SeasonThe square and cathedral get very crowded in the summer peak and during the December Christmas market; the first hour after opening is comparatively quiet.
Practical info
From Antwerpen-Centraal station, take a tram to the Groenplaats stop and walk about 3β5 minutes, or walk roughly 15β20 minutes from the station. Hours are generally weekdays 10:00β17:00, Saturday 10:00β15:00, and Sunday/public holidays 13:00β17:00 (closed January 1), with adult admission around β¬12 β but confirm current hours, prices and special closures on the official site before visiting.
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