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Church of Saint James |
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| This monumental church is another example of the beautiful combination of Gothic architecture and playfull Baroque furniture and artwork.It started as a shrine dedicated to St. James. In 1431 it was an inn, providing shelter for the pilgrims who were travelling from Northern Europe to Santiago de Compostela to visit the grave of the apostle Jacob. The chapel was built at the end of the 15th century and became a parish church. 15 Years later the church was replaced by the Brabantine - Gothic church you see these days. The idea was to build a 165 metres high tower |
| so it would overshadow the cathedral. Barely a 3rd of that height was realized. Early in the 17th century the eastern extension was duilt in Gothic style. This is also the church were Antwerp Master Pieter Paul Rubens was burried in 1640. When the French occupied this area, the church was also closed and bought back. It has a graceful triomphant altar, magical glasworks, marble communionrails and numerous tombstones. Address : Lange Nieuwstraat 73, 2000 Antwerp Telephone nr : 03/232.10.32 Opening hours : From the 15th of April till the 31st of October. 12.00 till 17.00 hrs Between November 1st and 31st of March only open on weekdays between 09.00 - 12.00 hrs Entrance fee : 1,75 � per person or 1,25� for students and groups of min. 20 people, -12yrs free entrance. |