The Ruien

We are now standing on Suikerrui. You wouldn’t guess it, but beneath your feet lies an entire network of underground canals. These centuries-old tunnels were built to protect Antwerp, supply its people, and carry away waste. Around the year 1200, a system of watercourses developed that ran straight through the city. They served as sources of water, transport routes, and open sewers.

Over time, more and more of the canals were built over. From the 16th century onward, citizens were allowed to build homes above them, provided they paid for the covering. By the end of the 19th century, most Ruien had vanished from sight, though they continued to function below ground as sewers and drains.

During World War II, they found a new purpose. They served as shelters from air raids, and in some places, like beneath Sint-Paulusplaats, Allied soldiers even held gatherings and parties.

After the war, the tunnels were forgotten until they were reopened in the early 2000s. Today, you can descend into this hidden chapter of the city with a guide, where the walls whisper stories of trade, war, and everyday life beneath Antwerp’s streets.