THE TRENDSETTING ZUID

At the end of the 19th century, the city council developed a new district just south of the old city centre. It became a Belle-Epoque district with sturdy harbour docks, elegant streets and wide avenues, lined with important public buildings.

After going through a difficult period, this district is now experiencing its second youth and, with its trendy image, the South is now known – even internationally – as one of the lifestyle and fashion hotspots of Antwerp.

The Fotomuseum (Museum of Photography), world culture centre Zuiderpershuis, Cinema Zuid and the Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA), the better art galleries, trendy restaurants and fashionable concept stores in converted warehouses will certainly appeal to culture freaks and trendsetters.

Your guide will use the star-shaped street pattern as a compass to unravel the history of this district, which has Parisian allure. The beautiful, wide streets lead onto squares with statues and fountains.

The most impressive buildings on your route are the majestic Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) and the somewhat futuristic looking new Palace of Justice. As a true temple of art and a supposedly ‘Butterfly Palace’, these buildings steals the show.

Furthermore, you can find striking maritime references on architectural details and numerous impressive monuments.

The Zuid will surprise you!