Antwerp

Rain greeted us again this morning! The drive to Antwerp was through very heavy rain but as we entered the city it began to clear. 

Replenishing the essentials!

We were able to get a parking spot close to the MAS ( Museum of the River). Our first visit was to the MAS - an interesting innovative building in the old docks area just north of the old town.

MAS ( Museum of the River) Antwerp

A series of escalators take you to the very top of the building which then gives you a wonderful panorama of the city and one of the busiest ports in Europe.

Antwerp from the MAS

Antwerp is about 2000 years old! But it's glory days happened in the 16th and 17th centuries. Some of the fine buildings  around the market square are some of the finest guild-houses in Europe. The tallest of these is the House of the Crossbowmen, with a gold statue of St George slaying the dragon! 

 The guild-houses in the market square Antwerp.

The Brabo Fountain, in the centre of the market square, is a traditional landmark for the city - this depicts a Roman soldier slaying the terror of the city's fleet.

Another view!

The ornately gable Stadhuis (City Hall), built in the 16th century, reflects the wealth and prosperity of the city. It still looks the same today as it did in the 16th century. 

The ornately gable Stadhuis (City Hall)

We took a tour of the Stadhuis - all in Flemish - an interesting look at the opulence of the merchants of the time.

 Interior of the Stadhuis

This weekend Antwerp was holding its Bolleksfeest! This extended from the river through streets leading to the Market Square and the. Through to other squares in the city. It was huge. People everywhere! We thought we would sneak into Antwerp on a quite Sunday and have a look around, and then ease out at the end of the day - not to be. The town was crowded and alive! A great afternoon.

Antwerp

We moved onto Bazel for our overnight.