St. Rumbold's Cathedral travel guide

Saint Rumbold's Cathedral, located in the heart of the Arrondissement of Mechelen, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Named after Saint Rumbold, an Irish or Scottish missionary who was martyred in Mechelen, the cathedral has been a significant religious site for centuries.

Construction began in the early 1200s, and it took nearly 300 years to complete this architectural masterpiece. The most striking feature of the cathedral is its 97-meter-high tower, which was originally intended to reach 167 meters but remained unfinished due to financial constraints. This tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mechelen and its surrounding areas.

Throughout its history, Saint Rumbold's Cathedral has witnessed numerous historical events and has undergone various restorations. It houses several religious artifacts, including an impressive carillon with 49 bells, some of which date back to the 15th century. Today, the cathedral remains a vibrant place of worship and a must-visit landmark for travelers interested in history, architecture, and culture.

Saint Rumbold's Cathedral captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture and its imposing 97-meter high tower, an iconic feature that dominates the Mechelen skyline. The tower, which was never completed to its original intended height, is equipped with two carillons, comprising a total of 49 bells. These bells produce enchanting melodies that resonate throughout the city, a testament to the cathedral's rich musical heritage.

Inside, the cathedral houses an impressive array of religious art, including paintings by renowned artists such as Anthony van Dyck and Michiel Coxie. The choir stalls, dating back to the 16th century, are intricately carved and feature scenes from the life of Saint Rumbold. The cathedral also boasts stunning stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes and saints in vibrant colors, adding a kaleidoscope of light and atmosphere to the interior.

Another unique feature is the Skywalk, an elevated viewing platform atop the tower, offering panoramic views of Mechelen and beyond. Accessible via a series of steps, this vantage point provides a breathtaking perspective of the city and its surroundings, making the climb well worth the effort. The combination of architectural grandeur, artistic treasures, and unparalleled views makes Saint Rumbold's Cathedral a must-visit destination.

Saint Rumbold's Cathedral is home to one of the heaviest carillons in the world, boasting 49 bells with a combined weight exceeding 80 tons. The tower, standing at 97 meters, offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Mechelen and beyond, visible on clear days up to Antwerp and Brussels. A unique feature of the cathedral is its astronomical clock, a marvel of 18th-century engineering, which not only tells the time but also tracks lunar phases and zodiac signs. Inside, the cathedral houses a remarkable collection of art, including works by Anthony van Dyck and Michiel Coxie. Interestingly, the tower was never completed to its intended height due to financial constraints and shifting architectural trends.

Located in the dynamic Mechelen, the popular St. Rumbold's Cathedral is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Mechelen or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Belgium.

Mechelen is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Mechelen offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Mechelen and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Grote Markt, Vrijbroekpark, Kazerne Dossin – Memorial, Speelgoedmuseum, and Museum Hof van Busleyden.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Mechelen has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Mechelen, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Belgium!

The best time to explore Saint Rumbold's Cathedral is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking around and appreciating the architectural beauty of the cathedral. Spring brings blossoming flowers and greenery, adding to the scenic charm of the surrounding area.

Visiting during weekdays in these seasons can offer a more serene experience, with fewer crowds compared to weekends. Early mornings are also an excellent time to visit for those looking to avoid peak tourist hours and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Summer, particularly July and August, sees an influx of tourists, which can result in longer waiting times and a busier environment.

Special events such as the Mechelen Cultural Days in September can enrich your visit, as the city comes alive with various cultural activities and exhibitions. Winter, especially around Christmas, adds a magical touch with festive decorations and occasional snow, though it can be colder.

Planning your visit around these factors can ensure the best experience while exploring Saint Rumbold's Cathedral.

St. Rumbold's Cathedral is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Mechelen, Belgium. If you're flying in, Brussels Airport is approximately 8.8 miles (14.2 km) away from Mechelen. From there, you can easily reach St. Rumbold's Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Mechelen, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach St. Rumbold's Cathedral, which is located 0.1 miles (0.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to St. Rumbold's Cathedral, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Onder-Den-Toren 12, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at St. Rumbold's Cathedral!

Conveniently explore St. Rumbold's Cathedral and plenty more captivating attractions in Mechelen by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to St. Rumbold's Cathedral and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Mechelen has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting St. Rumbold's Cathedral below.

Aside from St. Rumbold's Cathedral, Mechelen is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Mechelen, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Grote Markt, Vrijbroekpark, and Kazerne Dossin – Memorial.

Grote Markt is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Mechelen, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 7,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Grote Markt is Grote Markt, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium.

Another appreciated attraction in Mechelen is Vrijbroekpark. Like Grote Markt, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 3,600 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Ridder Dessainlaan 65, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium.

Kazerne Dossin – Memorial is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Mechelen. This museum and top attraction in Mechelen has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Goswin de Stassartstraat 153, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Mechelen below.