Right in the center of Antwerp, Belgium, rises an iconic building that changed the face of European architecture, the Boerentoren, also known as the Farmers’ Tower. Completed in 1931, this historic high-rise holds the distinction of being one of the very first skyscrapers in Europe, and for a time, the tallest building on the continent.
A Groundbreaking Architectural Marvel
At a time when most European cities were still dominated by church spires and traditional rooftops, Antwerp made architectural history with the construction of the Boerentoren. Reaching a height of 97 meters, this Art Deco masterpiece was the tallest building in Europe until the 1950s and remains one of the most important landmarks on the Antwerp skyline.
Its bold vertical lines, geometric shapes, and use of concrete and steel are characteristic of the Art Deco movement, a style that captured the optimism and modernity of the interwar period. For many, the Boerentoren symbolized progress, innovation, and a new era for urban European life.
From Farmers' Tower to Cultural Hub
The building’s name, Boerentoren, meaning Farmers’ Tower, refers to its original financing by the Belgian farmers’ cooperative bank. Over the decades, the tower has gone through various transformations, from being an office building to becoming a protected monument.
In recent years, the Boerentoren is undergoing redevelopment into a cultural center and exhibition space, led by the foundation of art collector Fernand Huts. When finished, it will house art exhibitions, museums, and public viewing areas, making it once again a vibrant part of Antwerp’s cultural scene.
Plan Your Visit to the Boerentoren
Location: Schoenmarkt, Antwerp, just steps away from the Cathedral of Our Lady and Groenplaats
Status: Currently under renovation, expected to reopen with public access in the near future
Photo Tip: Best viewed and photographed from Groenplaats or Meir Street, especially at sunset
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Boerentoren?
If you’re an architecture lover, a history enthusiast, or just exploring the best landmarks in Antwerp, the Boerentoren is a must-see. As Europe’s first true skyscraper, it stands as a symbol of urban innovation and a fascinating contrast to the city’s Gothic and Renaissance surroundings.
From its Art Deco design to its historical importance, the Boerentoren tells the story of a city that wasn’t afraid to reach for the sky.
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Belgium - Antwerp