Antwerpen-Centraal is the city’s main railway station, but most residents simply call it the Railway Cathedral. But why is that? We wanted to know more and paid a visit to the Antwerp station.
The Origins and Construction (1895–1905)
The construction of Antwerpen-Centraal station began in 1895. Antwerp was a significant trading city, and the station was meant to express exactly that. Besides functionality, it was important to the city fathers to showcase the city’s wealth. Visitors were to be impressed from the moment they arrived.
The design for the Antwerp station was created by Louis Delacenserie, a renowned Belgian architect. He was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, so it is not surprising that the highest point is a 75-meter-high dome. It is this dome that earned the station the name “Railway Cathedral.” The architect combined various stylistic elements, particularly from the Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque periods.
Engineer Clement Van Bogaert was responsible for the construction of the roof of the massive train shed. The glass and steel roof spans 185 meters in length, 66 meters in width, and 43 meters in height—a technical masterpiece of its time.
On August 11, 1905, the station was officially opened and was immediately a source of admiration. Travelers were welcomed in a magnificent hall adorned with marble columns, rich decorations, and artfully designed windows. The building was considered a symbol of progress and the pride of the Belgian railway system.
Renovations and Modernizations
While the main reception building has remained largely unchanged, the station has undergone several renovations and adjustments to meet the demands of modern railway traffic.
1950s
After suffering damage during the Second World War, the station building was restored. The glass and steel structure of the roof, in particular, was renewed.
1970s
The station was connected to the Belgian high-speed network, which required additional modernizations. However, the infrastructure was increasingly perceived as outdated, and the need for a comprehensive renovation arose.
1998-2007
During this period, the most extensive renovation and expansion projects in the history of Belgian rail transport took place. The goal was to adapt the historically listed station to the most modern requirements while preserving its historic architecture. The biggest change was undoubtedly the transformation of the station into a three-story transport facility. Originally a terminus station, trains could now pass through on different levels. This turned the station into a major hub for national and international train connections. As part of the renovation, commercial areas such as shops, restaurants, and waiting areas were also integrated.
The Departure Hall
Following the station’s renovation, train operations now take place on three levels. The upper floor, designated Level +1, has 6 tracks that end at the terminus. There are now two lower floors (Level -1 and Level -2). On Level -1, there are 4 terminus tracks, and on Level -2, there are 4 through-tracks. These tracks are primarily used by high-speed trains.
As part of the renovation, another modern entrance area, the Kievitstation, was also created. At first glance, I found the “traffic flow” for passengers a bit confusing. In total, there are 48 escalators and 40 elevators. You really need to know where you’re going to choose the right path.
Approximately 540 trains arrive and depart from the station daily. They travel to destinations such as Rotterdam, Ghent, Bruges, Brussels, Liège, Neerpelt, and Puurs.
What still remains after the renovation and truly impressed me is the iron and glass roof. It spans the entire structure, and the fabrication of this enormous construction was a feat of engineering for its time. I love that the glass roof makes the station feel bright and welcoming. Artificial light is only needed on the top departure level when it gets dark outside.
The Entrance Hall of the Railway Cathedral
Upon entering the entrance hall, I truly felt almost as if I were in a cathedral. The entrance area is predominantly made of marble, stone, and gilded decorations that give the space a luxurious feel. The floors are designed with fine stone patterns, creating an elegant atmosphere. The columns and walls are artfully crafted and feature engravings and reliefs depicting historical scenes and motifs.
A special highlight is the grand staircase. It reminded me more of a staircase in a palace or castle and is a real eye-catcher, and above all, a very popular photo opportunity. Every day, travelers hurry up the monumental staircase to reach the departure hall above. I wonder if they spare a glance for the large and artfully designed station clock that hangs above the stairs.
The entire entrance hall is framed by high, arched windows that let in natural light and emphasize the height of the room. The ceiling height is truly impressive. A stunning, 75-meter-high dome rises directly in the entrance hall, towering over the entire building. This dome is interspersed with glass and stone elements and symbolizes the grandeur and pride of the railway era. And now I also understand why the residents of Antwerp call this station the Railway Cathedral. It truly feels like one.
However, I did notice one thing in the entrance hall: it is not as quiet as a cathedral. The materials used here, such as marble, stone, and glass, reflect sound strongly and further amplify the reverberation, as they do not absorb the sound but rather bounce it back into the room. The 75-meter-high dome and the spacious design create a significant amount of reverberation. This results in an acoustic effect that makes the space feel lively and dynamic. Voices and sounds echo slightly, giving the room a certain monumental acoustic quality. At the same time, this can make it difficult to clearly understand individual conversations or announcements, especially when many people are present.
Fancy discovering the station?
Address:
Koningin Astridplein 27,
2018 Antwerpen, Belgien
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