Attractions

Vismarkt & The Canals

Mechelen had almost as many canals as Bruges however many of these were covered over in the early 20th century. Now there is a move to re-open the canals and the Vismarkt area is undoubtedly profiting from this new love affair with the city's waterways.

De Wit Royal Tapestry Manufacturers

The Refuge of Tongerlo was one of several retreat mansions in Mechelen for distant abbeys; it now houses the Manufacturer De Wit, which restores the finest tapestries, for which Flanders was famous in the 16th century. It's open to visitors on Saturday and really should not be missed.
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Grote Markt

There is much to see in Mechelen's main square: St Rombout's Kathedraal (St. Rumbold's Cathedral) with its dominating tower and Van Dyck's 'Crucifixion of Christ'; the Lakenhal (the wool merchants' hall) and the 14th-century belfry, which form the current City Hall; as well as the first City Hall that is now known as the Aldermen's House in which you will find the Schepenhuis Museum.

Rubens' Churches

The Sint-Janskerk (Church of St. John the Evangelist) is home to Rubens' 'The Adoration of the Magi', while the Kerk van Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-over-de-Dijle (Church of Our Lady across the river Dijle) houses 'The Miraculous Draught of Fishes'.

Two Royal Palaces

Mechelen has played host to two Margarets, both of whom left behind impressive palaces; that of Margaret of York is now the City Theatre, while that of Margaret of Austria is the oldest renaissance building north of the Alps and is currently used as a Court of Justice.