Europe's second-largest port after Rotterdam and Belgium's second largest city.  Although heavily bombed during WW2, Antwerp is a delightful city with numerous architectural highlights, most of which date from the 16th and 17th centuries. 

Antwerp is at the cutting edge of fashion and design, with countless boutiques and shopping outlets spread across the city, and in particular, the fashion area near the Meir shopping street, the famous large pedestrianised avenue visited by thousands daily.  This energy also surfaces in the trendy bars and nightclubs.  Beyond modern Antwerp, the more traditional attractions complement the new to make this a popular european destination.

The city's skyline is best seen from the raised promenades ~ Zuiderterras - or from the west bank of the River Scheldt.  The heart of the city is the Grote Markt, a large pedestrianised square with impressive Renaissance architecture.  In the middle of the Grote Markt stands the Brabo Fountain.  According to legend, a terrible giant lived on the banks of the river Scheldt in ancient times and whenever sailors crossing the river refused to pay him a toll the giant would punish them by cutting off their hand. A Roman soldier, Silvius Brabo, killed the giant, cut off his hand and threw it into the river.  A hand is still one of the symbols of the city.

Northern Europe's greatest Baroque artist, Pieter Paul Reubens, lived in Antwerp in the early-1600's and his work can be seen at several locations in the city, as well as at his house and studio. 

And one last thing ... Did you know that Antwerp is also the diamond center of the world, with 70% of the world's diamonds come from the city?!