Cathedral of Our Lady

Overview

The Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) is the largest Gothic church in the Low Countries and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its single completed spire rises 123 metres over Antwerp's skyline. Inside, four masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens command the nave and transepts.

Highlights

• Rubens Masterworks: The Raising of the Cross (1610), The Descent from the Cross (1614), The Assumption of the Virgin (1626), and The Resurrection of Christ.
• Gothic Spire: The 123-metre north tower, visible from across the city, took 169 years to build.
• Nave: A soaring seven-aisled nave — the widest of any Gothic church in the Low Countries.

History

Construction began in 1352 and continued for 169 years. Only one of the two planned towers was completed. Napoleon's troops looted the Rubens paintings in 1794; they were returned after 1815. The cathedral received UNESCO status in 1999.

Visitor Tips

• Closed Sundays for services; open Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00.
• Audioguide included with admission.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.