St. James's Church

St. James’s Church is one of Antwerp’s most beautiful churches. Built between 1491 and 1656, it’s a great example of Gothic architecture. The outside is impressive, but inside there’s even more to admire: marble altars, statues, and Baroque paintings.

The most famous part is the Rubens Chapel. Here lies the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens. He designed the chapel himself. Above the altar hangs his painting Madonna surrounded by Saints, painted around 1630. Above that is a sculpture of Mary in sorrow, made by Lucas Faydherbe. Rubens rests in the crypt, along with his wife, children, and descendants.

The church is not just a place of worship—it’s also a place of art, history, and peace. A hidden gem in the heart of the city.