Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal, Gothic grandeur with Rubens' masterpieces

Groenplaats 21, 2000 Antwerp

The exterior is quite magnificent

4.4

Introduction

The medieval cathedral is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in Belgium to this day. It was designed and built by several architects and has a history of 169 years. In its early days, its spire reached a height of 123 meters, making it the most beautiful landmark in Antwerp, which can still be seen from several kilometers away. The cathedral, covering an area of 1 hectare, is a symbol of Antwerp and one of the largest Gothic buildings of its time, resembling a lacework made of stone. Since 1352, it has been one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe and has been the tallest building in the region for centuries. Even now, the spire at 123 meters still stands tall, earning the nickname "Medieval Skyscraper" and serving as a prominent landmark for ships entering the port of Antwerp. Inside the cathedral, you can admire renowned works by Rubens such as "The Elevation of the Cross," "The Descent from the Cross," and "The Assumption of the Virgin Mary," among others.