Outstanding art is not only found within museum walls. Mechelen's city centre is home to four Gothic and three Baroque churches of exceptional quality. Step inside and admire masterpieces by leading artists such as Rubens, Van Dijck and Faydherbe. Discover the bright colours in the Begijnhof Church, the dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Hanswijk, and the unique wooden ceilings of St Catherine’s Church.
Set off through the city and uncover some of its hidden treasures.
Interactive Trail: Rubens in Stone
Rubens in Stone takes you on an inspiring journey into the world of the Baroque master Lucas Faydherbe, one of Rubens’s favourite pupils. Armed with a smartphone, you set off through the city. Chat with the master on WhatsApp and search for the work of this Baroque sculptor and architect. With a touch of humour, Lucas guides you through some of his greatest achievements. Inside the churches, rich visual and audio experiences bring you even closer to the Baroque master. A fixed route connects the three churches. Lucas Faydherbe will show you the way.
What makes this particular cultural walk so appealing is the interactive way in which you experience the city. “Forget traditional, weighty guidebooks or conventional – and sometimes monotonous – audio systems.
What Does Baroque Mean?
Baroque was an artistic style that became popular across Europe during the 17th century. Baroque paintings, sculptures and buildings are often dramatic and richly decorated. Well-known artists from the Baroque period include Rubens, Rembrandt and Caravaggio. Mechelen's own Lucas Faydherbe also belongs to this style period.
Practical Information: Rubens in Stone
- Price: 8 euros per smartphone. Two people can follow the trail together using one device.
- Duration: allow at least 2 hours for the complete walking trail.
- The route begins at St Rumbold's Cathedral.
- Opening Hours
- April – October: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm. Sunday 1 pm - 5 pm.
- November – March: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm. Sunday 1 pm - 5 pm.
Rubens in Stone is a collaboration between Museum Hof van Busleyden, NPO Torens aan de Dijle and the participating churches.
Got any questions or need advice? Please feel free to contact us at hvb@mechelen.be.
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