20 historic sites in Mechelen

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So much to see and so little time! Spend the night in Mechelen or take a guided tour.

Mechelen is a charming Belgian city that boasts a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the Middle Ages. With its well-preserved buildings, cobbled streets, and picturesque squares, Mechelen is a veritable treasure trove for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. From the impressive gothic cathedral to the charming old town, Mechelen is home to an array of historic sites that offer a glimpse into the city’s illustrious past. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 10 of the most notable historic sites in Mechelen, each with its own unique story to tell.

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1 St- Rumbold Cathedral (Sint-Romboutskathedraal)

Sint Romboutskathedraal, also known as St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Mechelen, Belgium. This magnificent gothic cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is named after Saint Rumbold, the patron saint of Mechelen.

Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire a stunning collection of religious art, including a number of masterpieces by famous Flemish painters such as Peter Paul Rubens and Anthony van Dyck. Other notable features include the cathedral’s impressive organ, which dates back to the 16th century, and its intricate stained glass windows.

Over the centuries, Sint Romboutskathedraal has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Mechelen, hosting coronations, weddings, and funerals. Today, it continues to be a popular destination for visitors from around the world, who come to marvel at its impressive architecture and rich artistic heritage.

Location: Onder de Toren

Traveltoer-Sint-Romboutscathedral-Mechelen

2 St- Rumbold Tower (Sint-Romboutstoren)

St. Rumbold Tower, also known as the Mechelen Tower or the Mechelen Belfry, is a stunning landmark in the city of Mechelen, Belgium. The tower is part of the St. Rumbold’s Cathedral complex and stands at a height of 97 meters (318 feet), making it one of the tallest church towers in Belgium.

The tower dates back to the 14th century and was originally built as a watchtower for the city. Over the years, it has served a variety of purposes, including as a prison, a bell tower, and a lookout point. Today, visitors can climb the 538 steps to the top of the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

The St. Rumbold Tower is also home to a carillon, a musical instrument consisting of bells played using a keyboard. Mechelen’s carillon is one of the largest and most famous in the world, with 49 bells. The carillon is played by a carillonneur, who uses the keyboard to create beautiful melodies that can be heard throughout the city.

Overall, the St. Rumbold Tower is a must-see destination for visitors to Mechelen, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

More info in my article: Sint-Romboutstoren: An Iconic Symbol of Mechelen

Location: Onder de Toren

Traveltoer-Sint-Romboutskathedraal-Mechelen

3 Beguinage Church (Begijnhofkerk)

The Beguinage Church, also known as Begijnhofkerk, is a beautiful church located in the heart of the Beguinage in Mechelen, Belgium. The Beguinage itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a well-preserved example of a medieval religious community of women.

The church dates back to the 17th century and was originally built as a place of worship for the Beguines, a religious order of lay women who lived in the Beguinage. The church is built in the Baroque style and features a stunning interior with ornate decorations, including a beautiful altarpiece and intricate stucco work.

Location: Nonnenstraat 28

4 Large Beguinage (Groot Begijnhof)

The Groot Begijnhof or in English Large Beguinage is a well-preserved and historic district located in the city of Mechelen. It was founded in the 16th century as a residential community for beguines, which were lay religious women who lived a communal life of prayer and service to the community.

The Groot Begijnhof in Mechelen is one of the largest and most well-known beguinages in Belgium, and it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. The complex includes a number of historic buildings, including houses, chapels, a hospital, and a church.

Today, the Groot Begijnhof is a popular tourist attraction and a residential neighborhood. Many of the original buildings have been converted into apartments, and the area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-manicured gardens. Visitors can also tour the historic church and learn about the history and culture of the beguines.

Location: Hoviusstraat and surrounding streets

5 Small Beguinage (Klein Begijnhof)

The Klein Begijnhof is a beautiful historic district in Mechelen, Belgium. It was founded in the 16th century as a home for a group of beguines, which were lay women who dedicated themselves to a religious life without taking formal vows.

The district is located near the center of Mechelen and is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, historic houses, and tranquil gardens. Visitors to the Klein Begijnhof can take a leisurely stroll through the district’s narrow alleyways and courtyards, admiring the well-preserved architecture and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

Today, the Klein Begijnhof is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been recognized for its cultural and historical significance. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike who are interested in the history and architecture of the region, and provides a glimpse into the daily life of the beguines who once lived there.

Location: Klein Begijnhof 3

6 Church of st-Catherine

The Church of St. Catherine, located in the historic center of Mechelen, Belgium, is a beautiful Gothic-style church that dates back to the 14th century. It is dedicated to Saint Catherine.

The church features an impressive bell tower that can be seen from many parts of the city.

Today, the Church of St. Catherine is an active place of worship and is open to visitors who wish to explore its rich history and beautiful architecture. It is a peaceful and serene destination, providing a glimpse into the city’s religious and cultural heritage.

Location: Sint-Katelijnestraat 78, 2800 Mechelen

7 House of Refuge of St-Trond’s Abbey

The House of Refuge of St-Trond’s Abbey is a historic building located in Mechelen and was build by Willem Sarens in 1533.

Location: Schoutestraat 3

8 Church of St-John the Baptist

he church of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist is a 15th century gothic church built on the site of a 13th century chapel. Though small, the church contains many artobjects. The church community was one of the most prosperous in Malines as the members of the High Council, the highest court in the Netherlands, resided here until the French Revolution.

Location: Sint-Janstraat, 2800 Mechelen

9 Klapgat

Located across from St. John’s Church tower, the Klapgat alleyway became a popular gathering spot for people to socialize and chat after attending Mass, hence earning its nickname “Gossip Alley”. The Mount of Olives statue of Christ oversaw these conversations, while the adjacent chapel displayed a group sculpture behind protective railings. In times of trouble, devotees would visit the chapel to pray and deposit a coin into the collection-box.

Location: Klapgat

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10 Church of St-Pieter and Paul

The Jesuit community built a church in 1670 dedicated to Saint Ignatius and Saint Francis Xavier. It held a valuable relic, a bone from the arm of Saint Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary who baptized many with his arm. The church became the parish church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul after the Jesuit order dissolved in the 18th century. The rich interior remains intact, displaying large paintings, sculpted confessionals, and statues. Recently, the interior underwent restoration. The paintings will also be restored later.

Location: Keizerstraat 1

11 Stadsschouwburg

The Stadsschouwburg is a cultural center and theater. The building was originally constructed in 1865 as a concert hall, and has undergone several renovations and updates throughout the years.

Today, the Stadsschouwburg hosts a variety of cultural events including theater performances, concerts, and dance shows. The programming is diverse and includes local, national, and international acts.

The building itself is a beautiful example of neo-classical architecture and features a grand entrance hall, ornate ceilings, and intricate moldings. The theater is a mid-sized venue suitable for both intimate performances and larger productions. Overall, the Stadsschouwburg is an important cultural hub in the city of Mechelen and is worth a visit for those interested in the arts.

Location: Keizerstraat 3

12 Palace of Margaret of Austria

The Palace of Margaret of Austria is a historic building originally built in the early 16th century as a palace for Margaret of Austria, who was the regent of the Netherlands and a powerful political figure in her time.

The palace is known for its impressive Gothic architecture, including a grand entrance hall, a chapel, and a large courtyard. It also features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and other ornate details.

Location: Keizerstraat 20

13 City Hall

City Hall is a magnificent building that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in Belgium and a must-see for anyone interested in history and culture.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the City Hall to learn about its fascinating history and architecture. The tour includes a visit to the Council Chamber, where important decisions were made by the city’s leaders, and the Gothic Hall, which features stunning murals and stained glass windows.

The building also houses a museum that showcases the history of Mechelen and its role in the development of Belgium. The museum includes exhibits on the city’s art and culture, as well as its political and social history.

A visit to City Hall is a great way to learn about the rich history and culture of Mechelen. The building is not only a stunning example of Gothic architecture but also an important part of the city’s heritage and identity.

Location: Grote Markt

14 Grand Market Square (Grote Markt)

The Grote Markt, or Grand Market Square, is the heart of Mechelen and one of its most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, the square is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to soak up the atmosphere of the city.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the square, admiring the beautiful architecture of the buildings and taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The square is also home to several cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

A visit to the Grote Markt is a must for anyone visiting Mechelen. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city.

Location: Grote Markt

15 Aldermans House (Schepenhuis)

The Alderman’s House, also known as the Schepenhuis, is a historic building in the center of Mechelen, Belgium. It was built in the 14th century and served as the city’s courthouse and seat of government for many years. Today, the building serves as a tourist office, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

Location: Vleeshouwerstraat

16 Basilica of Our Lady of Hanswyck

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Hanswijk is a Catholic church located in Mechelen. The church was built in the 17th century and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is considered to be a significant example of Baroque architecture in the region.

The church is located in the Hanswijk neighborhood of Mechelen and is a popular destination for visitors due to its stunning architecture and historical significance. The interior of the church is particularly impressive, featuring intricate wood carvings, ornate altarpieces, and beautiful stained glass windows. The church also houses several important artworks, including a sculpture of the Virgin Mary by artist Lucas Faydherbe.

In addition to its religious significance, Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Hanswijk is also an important cultural and historical landmark in Mechelen. The church is part of a larger complex that includes a convent, a chapel, and a pilgrimage site. The site has played an important role in the history of the city, serving as a place of worship, healing, and pilgrimage for many generations.

Location: Hanswijkstraat 71

17 Kazerne Dossin

Kazerne Dossin is a former transit camp located in Mechelen that served as a deportation center during World War II. Today, it is a powerful and moving museum dedicated to the memory of the Holocaust and the victims of Nazi persecution.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum, which includes exhibits that detail the history of the transit camp and the stories of the people who were imprisoned there. The museum also features a collection of artifacts and personal belongings of those who were deported from the camp.

A visit to Kazerne Dossin is a sobering but important reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust and a tribute to those who suffered and died as a result. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, human rights, and social justice.

Location: Goswin de Stassartstraat 153

18 Haverwerf

Haverwerf is a historic site located in the city of Mechelen. It is an old wharf area that dates back to the 16th century and is located on the Dijle River, which flows through the city.

The Haverwerf area was once an important trading hub for grain and other agricultural products, as well as a major transport hub for goods being shipped in and out of the city. The warehouses and other buildings in the area were used to store and process the goods, and many of them still stand today as historical landmarks.

Today, Haverwerf is a popular tourist attraction in Mechelen, with visitors coming to see the picturesque cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming cafes and restaurants that line the wharf.

If you have the opportunity to visit Haverwerf, you can explore the area on foot or by bike, take a boat tour on the Dijle river, or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance of this unique and historic part of Mechelen.

Location: Haverwerf

19 Fish Market (Vismarkt)

Vismarkt is a vibrant square in the heart of the city that is home to many cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink and soak up the atmosphere.

Many of the cafes and bars on Vismarkt offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your drink while people-watching and taking in the historic surroundings. The square is particularly popular during the summer months when it is filled with terraces and bustling with activity.

Location: Vismarkt

20 Brusselpoort

The Brusselpoort is one of the original city gates of Mechelen, a historic city in Belgium. It was built in the 13th century as part of the city’s fortifications, which were designed to protect the city from invaders.

The Brusselpoort is a well-preserved example of medieval architecture, and it features a number of unique features, including a drawbridge, a moat, and a massive stone archway. Over the centuries, it has been used for a variety of purposes.

The Brusselpoort is not open to visitors.

Location: hoogstraat 83

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FAQ

The construction of St. Rumbold’s Cathedral in Mechelen, Belgium, started in the early 13th century and continued for several centuries. As such, the cathedral was built by different architects and builders over time.

The original Romanesque church was built in the 12th century, but it was replaced by a Gothic church in the 13th century. The famous Flemish architect, Keldermans family, played a significant role in the construction of the cathedral during the 15th and 16th centuries. Specifically, the father-and-son team, Rombout II and Antoon I Keldermans, oversaw the construction of the tower of the cathedral, which is now known as the Sint-Romboutstoren.

Other architects who worked on the cathedral over the centuries include Herman and Dominic de Waghemakere, Jan Keldermans III, and Rombout Keldermans IV. Despite the multiple architects and builders involved in the construction of the cathedral, it has a cohesive and impressive Gothic architectural style that reflects the history and culture of Mechelen.

The Sint-Romboutstoren in Mechelen has 538 stairs leading up to the top of the tower. The stairs wind up through the interior of the tower and provide visitors with an immersive experience as they ascend the heights of this historic structure. While the climb can be quite strenuous, the effort is worth it for the stunning views of the city and the surrounding area from the top.

Maneblussers is a term used to refer to the people of Mechelen in Belgium. The word “Maneblussers” translates to “moon extinguishers” in English. The term has its roots in a legend that dates back to 1687, where it is said that a drunk man saw the moon shining through the tower of St. Rumbold’s Cathedral in Mechelen and mistook it for a fire. He sounded the alarm, and the people of the city rushed to the tower with buckets of water, ready to extinguish the “fire.” When they arrived, they realized that it was, in fact, just the moon shining through the mist. This legend has become an important part of the city’s folklore and identity, and the people of Mechelen have embraced the term “Maneblussers” as a proud nickname.

Mechelen is a historic city in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and unique traditions. Here are some of the things Mechelen is known for:

Rich history: Mechelen has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city played an important role in the political and religious affairs of the region, and its historic landmarks and buildings are a testament to this.
Gothic architecture: Mechelen is known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including St. Rumbold’s Cathedral and the Sint-Romboutstoren. These landmarks are prime examples of the region’s rich cultural heritage and have become iconic symbols of the city.
Unique traditions: Mechelen is known for its unique traditions, such as the annual Ommegang procession, which takes place in July and features a parade of historical figures and characters in colorful costumes.
Art and culture: Mechelen is home to several museums, including the Museum Hof van Busleyden and the Museum Schepenhuis, which showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Beer: Mechelen is also known for its traditional Belgian beers, including Gouden Carolus, which is brewed in the city.

Overall, Mechelen is a charming and historic city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and unique traditions that make it a must-visit destination in Belgium.

Compared to some other European cities, Mechelen is relatively affordable. However, the cost of living and travel expenses can vary depending on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Accommodation: Accommodation prices in Mechelen can vary depending on the location, quality, and amenities. You can find affordable accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels, as well as more expensive options such as luxury hotels and apartments.
Food and drinks: The cost of food and drinks in Mechelen can vary depending on where you eat and drink. There are many restaurants and cafes in the city, offering a variety of cuisines at different price points.
Transportation: Mechelen is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions can be easily reached on foot or by bike. However, if you need to take public transportation, the cost of a single ticket is relatively affordable.
Attractions: Many of the museums and historic sites in Mechelen are free to enter, while others may have an admission fee. The cost of attractions and activities can vary depending on your interests and preferences.

Overall, Mechelen is considered to be an affordable destination, especially compared to other major European cities. However, the cost of living and travel expenses can still add up depending on your budget and preferences.

The official language of Mechelen is Dutch. Dutch is spoken by the majority of the population, and it is the language used in schools, government, and business. However, due to its location in the Flemish region of Belgium, many people in Mechelen also speak Flemish, which is a dialect of Dutch. Additionally, many people in Mechelen also speak French and English, especially in the tourism industry and among younger generations who have learned English as a second language.