Antwerp: Diamondcentre
Antwerp is a major city in the north of Belgium. It has the biggest harbour of Belgium and is an important distribution center of goods through Europe. Antwerp is of course even better known as the world's leading diamondcentre. Antwerp became fully grown during the 16th century during the decline of Bruges due to the closing of the Zwin ( the waterway that connected Bruges to the sea ). At the end of the 15th century bit by bit all important trading houses were replaced from Bruges to Antwerp and Antwerp became the leading power of the entire international economy. During the years 1500-1550 Antwerp became the second largest European city norht of the Alpes. At the end of the 16th century Amsterdam came up as new world center and Antwerp lost most of its power to the golden age of the Dutch Republic. The famous Grand Place and city hall still remind of the times were Antwerp was the centre of the world. This city is absolutely worth a visit as it has a rich history and today still plays a leading rol in diamond trading and as a harbour.
To visit in Antwerp
The Antwerp Zoo
The Zoo in Antwerp was build in 1843 and has more than 6000 animals and about 769 species. The Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and is highly recommended because of research done in the Antwerp Zoo. The Zoo is all year open for visit
Cathedral of Our Lady
This cathedral was build during the high times of Antwerp's evolution. Building started during the 14th century and was completely finished in the year 1518. Inside the cathedral you can find different works of Rubens, one of the most prominent flemish primitives. If you are in Antwerp this is an absolute must-see during your stay in Antwerp.
The Central Trainstation
The entire Central Station is a monument on itself it has been completely restaurated during the last few years and is probably one of the finest trainstations in the world (The antwerpen zoo is right next to it so it is easy to visit both the same day) The railway station was designed by Mr. Delacenserie and is completed in the year 1905. It has a huge glass dome of about 60m and two enormous neo-baroque facades. Much of the interior is created out of Marble.
Royal museum of fine arts
As Antwerp has been a home to different flemish primitives and many important figures in the world of science. ( Rubens, Plantijn, Moretus, Mercator). Antwerp has a fine collection of Art to offer. In this museum you can find different works from Rubens, Titian and Van Dyck.
