The Kammenstraat

Anyone strolling through Kammenstraat today finds a lively mix of fashion boutiques, cafés, and creative shops. But behind this modern façade lies a history stretching back to the Middle Ages.

In the 12th century the street was known as Cammerstrate, named after the breweries that once lined it. ‘Camme’ referred to a brewery and ‘cammer’ to the brewer. For centuries this was the heart of Antwerp’s beer production, until the breweries moved to the newly developed Nieuwstad in the 16th century.

Afterwards, the street took on a new identity. Printing houses settled here, including the famous Christoffel Plantin, who began his printing works in this very street. Until 1974, the Gazet van Antwerpen still operated a print shop here, giving the street an industrial character.

During the 20th century Kammenstraat transformed once more. It became a meeting place for creatives and alternative culture. Punk and gothic stores like FANS gave the street a rebellious feel, while fashion boutiques and concept stores moved in.