A typical baroque church

Find somewhere to sit on Hendrik Conscienceplein and enjoy the richly decorated façade of Saint Charles Borromeo Church. The Jesuits built this typical baroque church between 1615 and 1621. As painter-decorator-architect, Peter Paul Rubens played an important part in the design. It is particularly worth noting the beautiful combination of sandstone and grey bluestone and the many baroque details.  

A rich interior

The baroque interior or the church is playful and opulent and is also there to enjoy. In the Chapel of Mary, you can follow the life of Mary in painted scenes and the ceiling design is by Rubens. Also note the 58-metre tower at the rear of the church. And in the north gallery, you will find a hidden treasure: a collection of lace and silk from the seventeenth century. 

A fantastic spectacle – the high altar

The high altar of the church immediately grabs your attention. The painted altarpiece above it is more than five metres tall. A unique historical system with pulleys and slots allows the paintings to be changed. You can witness this amazing spectacle live three times a year – on Easter Monday, Ash Wednesday and during the Night of the Churches in August. That definitely comes highly recommended! 

Go underground with a guide

There is also beauty to be discovered below ground. In the Middle Ages, the Antwerp Canals flowed at this location. In the underground crypt of the church, a mysterious door gives access to this underground water system. Would you like to witness this with your own eyes? If so, sign up for the Combined walk Saint Charles Borromeo Church – Antwerp Canals.