Antwerp Central Station

Overview

Antwerp Central Station (Antwerpen-Centraal) is a monumental railway station regularly named among the world's most beautiful. Its eclectic blend of Neo-Baroque stone facade, vast iron-and-glass train hall, and modern multi-level platforms makes it an architectural destination in itself.

Highlights

• Station Hall: A 75-metre-high dome over a Baroque stone hall with marble, gilt, and a grand staircase.
• Train Shed: A 185-metre-long iron-and-glass roof spanning the platforms — a cathedral of engineering.
• Modern Platforms: A 2007 expansion created four underground levels maintaining high-speed services.

History

Designed by Louis Delacenserie and completed in 1905 for King Leopold II. The iron train shed was engineered by Clement van Bogaert. A major renovation (1998–2007) added the below-ground platforms for the HST/Thalys services.

Visitor Tips

• Free to enter — just walk in and look up.
• Best viewed from the grand staircase or the lower platforms looking up through all levels.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.