Mechelen

The Grote Markt is the bustling heart of Mechelen, surrounded by historical buildings with a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. This lively square is home to the City Hall, the iconic Belfry, and several charming cafés and restaurants where visitors can enjoy local Belgian cuisine. It’s the perfect spot to experience Mechelen’s atmosphere, especially during markets or festivals. In the center of the square stands a statue of Margaret of Austria, symbolizing the city’s role in the history of the Habsburg dynasty. The Grote Markt is a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modern life. During December, the square transforms into a Christmas market with ice-skating rinks and artisan stalls. The City Hall’s facade features 16th-century statues of Dukes of Brabant, restored in 2021 to their original polychrome colors.

Founded in 1471, Het Anker is one of the oldest breweries in Belgium and a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. The brewery is known for producing the world-famous Gouden Carolus beer, which has won numerous awards. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the brewing process, from the selection of raw materials to fermentation and bottling. After the tour, you can enjoy a tasting session in the brewery’s tavern or explore their shop for souvenirs. Het Anker also features a hotel and restaurant, where Belgian cuisine is paired with their unique beers. The brewery offers a deep dive into Mechelen’s brewing tradition. The brewery’s Copper Brew House, dating to 1904, still uses traditional open fermentation vats. Annual events like "Brewer’s Night" let guests blend their own beers under master brewers’ guidance.

This poignant museum is located in a former army barracks and commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. Kazerne Dossin was a transit camp during World War II, where over 25,000 Jews and Romani people were held before being deported to Auschwitz. The museum provides a powerful narrative of the human suffering endured during the Holocaust, combining personal stories with historical documents and artifacts. The center also focuses on human rights, reflecting on contemporary issues of racism and xenophobia. It’s a thought-provoking place that encourages reflection on history and the importance of tolerance. The museum’s "Names Wall" displays the identities of all deportees, recovered through decades of research. Temporary exhibits, like 2023’s "Art in Resistance," highlight creative defiance under oppression.

Planckendael Zoo is a family-friendly attraction located just outside Mechelen. Spanning over 42 hectares, the zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. It is divided into sections representing different continents, providing visitors with an immersive experience into the natural habitats of various species. Planckendael also emphasizes conservation efforts and houses several endangered species, contributing to breeding programs for animals like the bonobo and Amur leopard. There are playgrounds, picnic spots, and interactive exhibits, making it a perfect day out for families. A new savannah exhibit opened in 2023, featuring cheetahs and zebras roaming a recreated African landscape. The zoo’s "Climate Lab" educates visitors on reducing carbon footprints through interactive games.

St. Rumbold's Cathedral is Mechelen's iconic landmark, known for its towering 97-meter-tall spire that dominates the skyline. This Gothic cathedral is dedicated to Saint Rumbold, a 7th-century missionary and martyr. Visitors can climb the 538 steps to the top of the tower, where they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Mechelen and even distant cities like Brussels and Antwerp on clear days. The interior is equally stunning, with beautiful stained glass windows, a magnificent organ, and intricate wood carvings. The tower also houses two carillons with a total of 49 bells, making it one of the best-preserved bell towers in Europe. The cathedral's spire, part of the UNESCO-listed Belgian belfries, underwent a decade-long restoration completed in 2023. Every summer, the tower hosts a Carillon Festival, where musicians perform classical and modern pieces on its historic bells.