Antwerp Cathedral, Belgium

The Cathedral in Antwerp is also an architectural landmark of world significance. It began to be built in 1352. Construction work continued continuously until 1521. Even though the cathedral has been operating continuously since the middle ages, it is still officially considered unfinished. Jean Amel was the main architect who designed the cathedral. Residents and visitors of Antwerp can admire the unique Gothic features of the cathedral today thanks to his efforts.

The interior design of the cathedral also has a lot of unique values. Famous artists Otto van Veen and Peter Paul Rubens worked on its design. The height of the cathedral is 120 meters. It is perfectly visible from many streets of Antwerp. It serves as a convenient reference point for tourists. About 320,000 people visit the majestic cathedral every year. Guided tours are paid here. Funds collected from excursions are spent on the maintenance of the cathedral. About 1.5 million euros are invested in its repair and strengthening every year.

The people of Antwerp have considered the Virgin Mary their patroness for hundreds of years. Her ancient statue was kept in a small old chapel earlier. It is one of the main relics of the cathedral today. The cathedral was looted and destroyed during numerous wars. But this statue always managed to survive completely. Locals believe that nothing threatens their city as long as the statue remains in its place. Antwerp Cathedral is one of the largest in the world. It can accommodate up to 25,000 people at a time. Next - Dom Cologne Cathedral