Cathedral of Our Lady
Belgium’s largest Gothic church, begun in the mid-14th century and graced with masterworks by Peter Paul Rubens, dominates Antwerp’s skyline with a soaring 123-meter tower.
At a glance
This Roman Catholic cathedral has served as the seat of the Diocese of Antwerp since its foundation in 1352. Construction proceeded through the 15th and 16th centuries, with the first major phase concluding in 1521—though the building remains incomplete. The tower rises majestically above the city.
History
The cathedral’s foundation in 1352 marked the beginning of one of Northern Europe’s greatest Gothic enterprises. Architects Jan and Pieter Appelmans directed construction across nearly two centuries. The first stage concluded in 1521, yet subsequent additions and modifications continued—and the work of completion was never fully achieved. The belfry was incorporated into the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the Belfries of Belgium and France designation.
What you see
The cathedral exemplifies Flemish Gothic design at its most ambitious. Its most striking feature is the tower: a tapering shaft that rises 123 meters (404 feet) and commands sweeping views across Antwerp. The interior houses an exceptional collection of religious art spanning centuries—a testament to the cathedral’s evolving role in the city’s spiritual life.
Cultural significance
The cathedral’s artistic treasures include several monumental works by Peter Paul Rubens, the Baroque master who lived in Antwerp. Paintings by Otto van Veen, Jacob de Backer, and Marten de Vos further enrich the interior. As Belgium’s largest Gothic church, it stands as a landmark of medieval ambition and Renaissance artistic patronage.
Key facts
- Country: Belgium
- City: Antwerp
- Coordinates: 51.22055556, 4.40055556
- Tower height: 123 meters (404 feet)
- Foundation: 1352
- First stage completion: 1521
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Belfries of Belgium and France
Practical information & getting there
The Cathedral of Our Lady stands in central Antwerp, easily reached by public transport. For opening hours, admission fees, and guided tours, consult the official diocese website or the Antwerp tourism authority. The tower offers panoramic city views to visitors able to climb the stairs.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →📷 Diventa un fotografo di Cultural Heritage Online
Condividi le tue foto dei luoghi: restano pubblicate con la tua firma come autore. Più vengono viste, più ti fai conoscere — e presto un concorso premierà le foto più apprezzate.
Accedi o registrati gratis per aggiungere una fotoDo you manage this place?
This page is read by travellers and heritage enthusiasts who find it on Google. Keep it accurate — and make it work for you. Free for non-profit heritage institutions.