In the city of Antwerp, Dutch- [Flemish-] speaking part of Belgium

 "Every child has the spirit of creation. The rubbish of life often exterminates the spirit through plague and a soul's own wretchedness" -- Peter Paul Rubens

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(in the Dutch- [Flemish-] speaking part of Belgium) The city of Antwerp is found on the Schelde (Scheldt) River, some 55 miles (88 km) from the North Sea. The Schelde, along with the Meuse and the Rhine, forms the biggest estuary in western Europe, and Antwerp is a critical part of a huge harbor complex, one of the greatest in the world. The harbor installations of Antwerp grew especially after World War II. For many years this expansion was limited to the right bank of the Schelde, but beginning in the 1970s much development occurred on the left bank as well. Because the city lies in the Flemish speaking part of Belgium, Antwerp plays the role of unofficial capital of Flanders. Antwerpians generally take this role rather seriously, conscious as they are of the great importance of their city.

+ Until 1859, Antwerp was surrounded by its 16th-century fortified walls, which were transformed in the latter half of the 19th century into broad avenues when a larger half-circle of fortifications was constructed. This later encircling belt was replaced after World War II by another system of ring roads, which connect with a network of highways. The city center, which remains on the Schelde's right bank, stretches westward from the Central (railway) Station along the lively artery constituted by the Keyserlei and the Meir (streets) into the Old City and, from there, to the terraced right bank of the river.

+ Antwerp, Belgium’s second largest city and biggest port, has long been a magnet for everyone from fashion moguls and club queens to art lovers and diamond dealers. In the mid-16th century, it was one of Europe’s most important cities and home to baroque superstar painter Pieter Paul Rubens, as many museums will remind you. Despite all the historical travails since, including severe WWII bombing, Antwerp retains a fascinating medieval heart with café-lined cobbled lanes, a riverside fortress, and an impressive cathedral. (Today, Antwerp’s main attractions are its vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, along with its startling architectural and cultural contrasts.)

+ Antwerp is indeed a hidden gem. Its medieval streets, Renaissance monuments, and vibrant nightlife tend to be a bit overshadowed by its reputation as center of the diamond trade and as the world's fifth-largest port. Biking is a popular choice for getting around this stylish Flemish city. Visit the monumental Gothic and New Baroque 17th century Saint Paul's Church and explore the paintings by Rubens and van Dyck, the Baroque altars, and the 60 sculptures at the Calvary Garden. See thousands of Old Masters at the Royal Museum and Rubens House. Experience the bustle of life at the Grote Markt. Marvel at the art and architecture of the still unfinished Cathedral of Our Lady, started in 1351.