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The largest flood plain in Flanders lies in the Polders of Kruibeke along the Scheldt River. Don't worry, flooding only happens a few times a year. Every other day of the year, you can walk, cycle, play, or fish carefree: it's all possible in the Polders of Kruibeke. The paths lead you through a diverse landscape of mudflats and salt marshes, alder swamp forests, and meadow bird habitats. Don't forget your binoculars for wildlife spotting. It's definitely worth a visit!

Simply beautiful castle and forest

The castle was built by the Spanish nobleman Don Pedro Coloma and still exudes its former grandeur. Philippe de Marnix, Lord of Sainte Aldegonde, was the right-hand man of Prince William of Orange. He played a key role during the siege and fall of Antwerp in 1585 while mayor of the city. He is also mentioned as a possible author of the Wilhelmus, the Dutch national anthem.

The wetter the better...

The Schoon Verdiep is located in the City Hall, which has a rich history. The City Hall is a Renaissance building, designed by the architect Cornelis Floris De Vriendt. It was built between 1561 and 1564. The name 'Schoon Verdiep' is a literal translation of the French 'bel-etage' (single floor). A bel-etage is the main floor of a building that is located on the first floor rather than the ground floor. The most evocative room in the Schoon Verdiep is 'The Mayor's Office'. This is the office of the Mayor of Antwerp. Striking features of this room include the beautiful mantelpiece, the gold leather wallpaper, and the portraits of former mayors. The 'Trouwzaal' (Wedding Room) is the largest room in the City Hall. For over 130 years, the people of Antwerp have exchanged vows here. Previously, the room served as a reception room for heads of state and governors. "De Wandelzaal" (The Walking Room) is a highly diverse space. Noteworthy features include the stained-glass windows and the large porcelain vases. The College Hall is where the city council meets. Eye-catching features of this room include the paintings, the balcony, and the beautiful carved wood mantelpiece. The city council meets in the Council Chamber. Here, the majority and opposition sit opposite each other, and debate the city's governance. Copper panels adorn the walls of the Council Chamber, listing the names of Antwerp's mayors over the centuries. The "Kleine Leyszaal" (Small Leys Room) now serves as the landing between the Leyszaal and the Wedding Hall, but was once a staircase to the ground floor. In 1861, painter Hendrik Leys was commissioned to create murals in "De Leyszaal." Together with city archivist Pieter Génard, he devised a truly unique scenario. Above the doors were placed portraits of dukes and princes who had granted Antwerp significant favors and liberties. The large scenes on the walls illustrate the city's acquired liberties before 1794. Receptions and gatherings are regularly held in the Leyszaal.

For the Formula 1 fans: this corner is just like Eau Rouge and Raidillon!

A beautiful piece of history

Every half-hour and hour you can pass here