Standing proudly on the banks of the River Scheldt, Het Steen is not only the oldest building in Antwerp, but also one of its most iconic landmarks. Constructed between 1200 and 1225, this small yet imposing fortress is steeped in history and mystery. It gets its name, “The Stone”, because it was one of the first buildings in the city made from stone, during a time when most structures were still made of wood.
From Fortress to Museum: A Building with Many Lives
Over the centuries, Het Steen has worn many hats. Initially built as part of the city's defensive wall system, it was later transformed into a prison in 1549, a role it kept for nearly 300 years until 1823. In 1862, it reopened as an archaeological museum, giving citizens and visitors a glimpse into Antwerp’s ancient past.
Most recently, until 2008, Het Steen housed the National Navigation Museum, reflecting Antwerp’s deep maritime heritage. Today, it functions as a visitor center and cultural landmark, and serves as the gateway to the city’s waterfront promenade.
The Tale of Lange Wapper, Antwerp’s Mischievous Giant
As you approach Het Steen, you’re greeted by a towering bronze statue that might catch you by surprise. This is Lange Wapper, a figure from Flemish folklore, sculpted in 1963 by artist Albert Poels. According to legend, Lange Wapper is a trickster giant who can grow so tall that he can leap from city to city in a single bound.
His antics are the stuff of legend, he’s known for teasing drunkards, tricking children, and even stealing breast milk from nursing mothers by disguising himself. Often laughing like the devil, Lange Wapper is not exactly evil, but he thrives on mischief, fear, and the chaos he creates among city dwellers.
Location & Visitor Info
- Address: Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
- Open daily; entry to the visitor center is free
- Don’t forget your camera, this site is one of the top photo spots in Antwerp!
Why Visit Het Steen?
- It’s the oldest surviving building in Antwerp.
- It’s right along the River Scheldt promenade, perfect for scenic walks.
- The Lange Wapper statue makes for a great photo, and a good tale to share.
- A great stop on your way to the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) or the Old Town.
- The castle’s long history, from prison to museum, offers a tangible timeline of Antwerp’s past.
Het Steen is where medieval architecture, urban legends, and cultural heritage all come together, guarded by a cheeky giant who might just be watching you.