Attractions and Places To See around Kruibeke - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kruibeke include a blend of historical landmarks and natural landscapes. Located in the Belgian province of East Flanders, the area is characterized by its expansive flood plains and historic villages. Visitors can explore sites that reflect the region's past and its connection to the Scheldt River. The municipality offers a variety of points of interest for those seeking cultural and natural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Kruibeke
- The most popular attractions is Grote Markt Antwerp, a historical site that serves as the historic center of Antwerp. This main square is surrounded by 16th-century buildings, including the Town Hall, and features the Brabo statue.
- Another must-see spot is Het Steen, a castle that is the oldest preserved building in Antwerp. Built between 1200 and 1225, it has served various functions, including a prison, and now operates as the Antwerp Visitor Center.
- Visitors also love Groenplaats and the Rubens Statue, Antwerp, a man-made monument and central square in downtown Antwerp. It is a popular meeting point with views of the Cathedral of Our Lady and features a statue of Peter Paul Rubens.
- Kruibeke is known for historical sites, man-made monuments, and viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from city squares to ancient castles.
- The attractions around Kruibeke are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1300 upvotes and over 1100 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Grote Markt Antwerp
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Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle
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Bridges connect people and landscapes. Know that it is quite busy here on weekends.
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Brabo Fountain
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Het Steen
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Sint-Annatunnel
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The Brabo Fountain is one of Antwerp's most iconic monuments and is located on the Grote Markt, in front of the City Hall. The fountain tells the legend of the giant Druon Antigoon and the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo. According to tradition, Druon Antigoon demanded a high toll from ships that wanted to pass the Scheldt. If skippers refused to pay, he chopped off their hand and threw it into the river. Silvius Brabo, a brave soldier, defeated the giant, chopped off Antigoon's hand in turn and threw it into the Scheldt. This legend is said to be the origin of the name "Antwerp" (derived from "hand werpen"). The fountain, designed by Jef Lambeaux and unveiled in 1887, shows Brabo triumphantly throwing away the giant's hand. The sculpture is full of dynamism and symbolism, surrounded by water spouts and smaller figures that refer to the Scheldt and the sea. The Brabo Fountain is not only a tribute to a folk tale, but also a beautiful work of art and a beloved symbol of the city of Antwerp.
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Located directly on the Schlede and centrally in Antwerp, I didn't expect to see this magnificent castle there. The castle looks like one of the medieval castles from the earlier knight films. I found it very fascinating. The castle is also Antwerp's oldest building. Of course, it can also be visited.
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The ceremonial unveiling of the sculpture took place on August 21, 1887. It depicts the young hero Silvius Brabo throwing the severed hand of the giant Druon Antigon, whom he had previously defeated in battle, into the Scheldt. According to tradition, this is where the name of the city comes from, "throwing hand".
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A tunnel for cyclists and pedestrians under the Scheldt.
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Wonderful market square with beautiful house facades. Great restaurants and cafes on the square.
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Modern iron bridge over the canal.
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The Brabo fountain is very impressive. And the story behind it...😉
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The legend of Brabo and the history of the origins of Antwerp was created in the 15th century. The story is the merging of various older legends such as the story of the Swan Knight, Tristan and Isolde, ... The literary history of the origins has already been extensively researched. An important moment is the oldest known written record of the story in its current form by Willem van Berchem and the publication Van den Dorpe in which the story not only appears in print for the first time, but is also provided with an illustration and thus the iconographic tradition of the Brabo legend begins. At that time, Brabo is still depicted as a medieval knight. From the 16th century onwards, the iconography evolves, with Brabo being depicted as a Roman soldier. This will be changed for the first time by Jef Lambeaux by depicting the figures (both Brabo and the giant 'Antigoon') naked. The story also remains popular in literature. The legend of the origins is a powerful symbol for the freedom of Antwerp, mainly in terms of shipping and trade. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary natural attractions to explore in Kruibeke?
Kruibeke is renowned for the Polders of Kruibeke, Flanders' largest flood plain, spanning 600 hectares. This expansive nature reserve is vital for flood protection along the Scheldt River and offers stunning landscapes, especially when temporary waterfalls form during high water. It's a haven for wildlife, including deer, beavers, otters, and various bird species. Within the Polders, you can also discover the whimsical Waterfalls of Kruibeke and the tranquil Beverpad (Beaver Path) along the Rupelmond Creek.
Are there any historical or cultural sites worth visiting in Kruibeke?
Absolutely. The most prominent historical site is Wissekerke Castle in Bazel, a neo-Gothic moated castle dating back to the 10th century. While its interior may sometimes be closed, the exterior and surrounding gardens are impressive. The picturesque Bazel Village itself is recognized as one of Flanders' 50 most beautiful villages, featuring the Sint-Petrus Church and serving as a charming starting point for walks.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Kruibeke's attractions?
The region around Kruibeke is excellent for outdoor activities, particularly hiking, running, and mountain biking. You can find numerous trails, such as the 'Rupelmond Creek hiking trail' and the 'Barbier Brook hiking trail' within the Polders. For more options, explore the dedicated guides for Hiking around Kruibeke, Running Trails around Kruibeke, and MTB Trails around Kruibeke.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Kruibeke?
The natural areas, especially the Polders of Kruibeke, offer great family-friendly experiences. Children can enjoy spotting wildlife like deer and beavers, and the flat paths are suitable for walks and cycling. The Beverpad is a short, engaging trail perfect for families. The Bazel-Hemiksem Ferry also provides a fun, historic experience for all ages crossing the Scheldt.
What is the best time of year to visit Kruibeke, especially for nature viewing?
The Polders of Kruibeke are beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly rewarding for nature viewing. In spring, you'll see new growth and migratory birds. Autumn brings vibrant colors and excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. During high water periods, the temporary Waterfalls of Kruibeke are a unique sight, though this can occur at various times depending on river levels.
Are there any accessible paths or trails for wheelchairs in Kruibeke?
While specific wheelchair-accessible paths are not extensively detailed for all attractions, the newly constructed Ringdijk offers a tarmac towpath that is ideal for traffic-free cycling and walking between Kruibeke, Bazel, and Rupelmonde. This flat, paved surface is generally suitable for wheelchairs, providing scenic views of the protected areas.
Where can I find unique art installations in Kruibeke?
The Polders of Kruibeke integrate art into the natural landscape. You can discover pieces like 'Arcade' on the ring dyke in Bazel and the impressive 'Cosmogolem' by Koen van Mechelen on the Scheldelei in Kruibeke. These installations offer an interesting blend of culture and nature.
Can I cycle around Kruibeke's attractions?
Yes, Kruibeke is very cyclist-friendly. The Polders of Kruibeke feature numerous cycling routes, including the 'Go with the Flow' bicycle route. The Ringdijk also provides a traffic-free tarmac towpath perfect for cycling between the towns. The Bazel-Hemiksem Ferry is popular with cycling tourists, allowing you to cross the Scheldt and extend your rides.
What is the Bazel-Hemiksem Ferry and why is it popular?
The Bazel-Hemiksem Ferry is a historic ferry service across the Scheldt River, with origins dating back to the 13th century. Today, it's a popular choice for cycling and hiking tourists, offering a charming way to connect Bazel with Hemiksem and experience the river from a different perspective.
Are there any specific hiking trails in the Polders of Kruibeke?
Yes, the Polders offer several well-known hiking trails. You can explore the 'Kruibeke Creek hiking trail' and the 'Barbier Brook hiking trail,' which allow you to immerse yourself in the diverse natural landscape of mudflats, salt marshes, and alder thickets. These trails are excellent for observing the local flora and fauna.
What makes Bazel Village special?
Bazel Village is recognized as one of Flanders' 50 most beautiful villages. Its charm lies in its picturesque setting, with the central Koningin Astridplein featuring the historic Sint-Petrus Church and a selection of cafes and restaurants. It serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding natural and historical sites.
Is there parking available for visitors to the Polders of Kruibeke?
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided, the Polders of Kruibeke are a popular destination, and visitors typically find designated parking areas near main access points or trailheads. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current parking information.
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