About this experience
You will discover the hometown of Rubens through the milestones of the artist's biography and his creations, visit the places he frequented, and even taste the beer that the master knew well. Antwerp and its history are full of surprises to the same extent as Rubens' life was rich in narrative twists. You will truly enjoy unraveling the thread of the master's fate and understand how closely it is linked to the destiny of the city.
What to expect
About Rubens' life and art
You will learn everything about the life of the Flemish genius, his work, and his family - touching a biography resembling a classic adventure novel where fame juxtaposes with sadness, and joy with tragedy.
I will tell you how Rubens tried to restore the former glory of Antwerp as the richest city in the world and what the allegorical painting 'The Union of Earth and Water' has to do with it. A stroll through Antwerp will allow you to immerse yourself in the world of the creator and understand why Peter Paul Rubens' paintings are filled with longing, joy, and delicate European flavor.
Route: Rubens and more
Let's meet at Antwerp Central Station, and I will introduce you to this 'temple of railroads.' Then we will walk through the Diamond Quarter (did you know that Antwerp is a global center for diamond trade?).
While strolling, we will trace the origins of the city and follow through all its epochs. On the main shopping street with eclectic facades, you will see where Maestro Rubens lived and was buried. Other corners of Antwerp will also remind you of Rubens, his diplomatic activities, and creative quest. You will even see the 'second' in the book printer's history where the artist used to visit.
Currently, Rubens' house-museum is under renovation. But we will visit the Cathedral, where you will fully appreciate the Master's works. After the tour, you can independently visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, reopened after a 15-year renovation, where you will find a gallery full of the artist's masterpieces.
You will also taste the most delicious praline in Belgium, peek into the 17th-century Jesuit office in Baroque style, not miss the 16th-century Renaissance Town Hall, the first international stock exchange, the Gothic Butchers' Hall, and the Steen Castle.
Organizational Details
Entrance fee to the Cathedral is 12 € per person, the museum - 20 € per person.
