Antwerp Disney Travel Agents Near Me

Overview

Introduction

The world's diamond capital and home of Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, Antwerp, Belgium, is a joy to visit.

The wide squares and the narrow cobbled streets of the old town are perfect for strolling—they're lined with shops and cafes, which make the walk even more pleasant—and there's a thriving nightlife.

Antwerp is 34 mi/55 km north of Brussels.

Geography

Antwerp is located in the northern part of Belgium, which is known as Flanders. The landscape is plain, which probably gave the area the historical name "Low Countries."

The city is situated beside the North Sea and on the eastern bank of the River Scheldt.

History

Business is deep-rooted in the history of Antwerp. The city prospered as a small trading center as early as the eighth century, though it was destroyed by the invading Normans in 836. The city was rebuilt, and by the 11th century, it once again attained prosperity and functioned as an important port in the area. The city had a charter of its own in 1291 and was under the control of Brabant between the 13th and 14th centuries. It progressed steadily to become a business hub, and became an important commercial and financial center, with brisk trading activities in gold, luxury goods and spices imported from all over the world.

The diamond industry was established and started flourishing in the 15th century. Skilled Jewish workers were expelled from Portugal and found refuge in Antwerp, which welcomed fresh talent. However, there was a setback in the latter part of the 16th century when marauding Spanish troops killed more than 6,000 inhabitants and looted the city. It was much later, in the 18th century, that the city regained part of the old glory with the help of the French. The port facilities were expanded and business began to boom again.

Expansion and development of the city since the 19th century has been rapid, save during the World Wars when it suffered damages and was captured by the Germans. Today, the city is bustling with activity and serves as an important international business center.

Potpourri

Antwerp has the distinction of inventing the art of polishing diamonds, and the term "Antwerp cut" is synonymous with quality in international circles. There are more than 1,800 diamond dealers within a small area called the Diamond District.

According to Belgian mythology, the city of Antwerp is believed to have been attacked by Antigoon, a giant. A brave soldier named Brabo cut the giant's hand and threw it into the river. A statue honoring Brabo stands at the entrance to the town hall.

Location

The port of Antwerp stretches over a vast area, and it is a beehive of activity. An average of 40 sea vessels dock at the port every day, bringing in and ferrying out various goods.

The best way to explore the port area is by bicycle, and the port authorities have drawn up maps specifically for bicycle routes.

For more information, visit the website: http://www.portofantwerp.com/en.