Devoted to Mary
Walk with us along the many statues
Where do all these Holy Virgins come from?
Mary is the Antwerp patron saint. That explains her visibility in the streets of Antwerp: more than 150 statues of the Holy Virgin adorn facades in the inner town. Many are of great quality, often made by or attributed to well-known sculptors. They are vulnerable, though, and require maintenance, a task that Voor Kruis en Beeld, a non-profit organization, has taken upon itself.
Thiese statues of Our Lady also tell a lot of the history of Antwerp, a history which was strongly influenced by the relationships between government, population and religion. Just think of the religious wars of the 16th century or the troubled relations between state and church under the French regime. Of course also these aspects are covered as we stroll by the statues.
With a mild look Maria watches us, protective and caring over the city.
Join us on a walk past the most beautiful Madonnas
Fancy More?
Before or after the tour a visit to one of the historical churches in town can be organised (Cathedral, Charles Borromeo, …)
A La Carte
Would you like more information? Do you want to eat something with the group before or after the tour?
We’d gladly work out a suggestion for you.