Belgium - Historic core of Antwerp -Anvers- from the Scheldt to the old ramparts from around 1250

"The historic core of Antwerp, next to the Schelde east side, has an irregular oval shape of a half in which evolution is readable in the layout of ancient streets and urban spaces. Excavations in 1950 revealed a small Gallo-Roman occupation at or near the Steen Castle (stone), built in the thirteenth century on the banks of the Scheldt, at the location of a first small fortress which served as the ninth century control station on the River. The growing political and military power from then stimulates the establishment of a small fan-shaped town with a church and surrounded by moats and first in the thirteenth century a stone wall which there are some parts behind the Meat Hall. This first "village", which enjoys the protection of local lords, sees the development from the eleventh century to its periphery and on higher ground, a commercial extension that will determine the future of the city. The integration of the Duchy of Brabant, Antwerp, leading an expansionary economic policy, promote the expansion and empowerment of the city that will rise to the rank of city with 1220 as a forum or Grand, grouping public buildings such as civil Cloth Hall, a first Hall Meats, House and Aldermen. The Romanesque church of Notre Dame and Hospital are located nearby..." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Grote Markt - Grand Place of Antwerp. Thanks to Myriam of Belgium.





Postcard 2
Multi-view of Antwerpen - showing Steen Castle on top right and historic Antwerp. Thanks to Audy of Switzerland.