The historical Port of Antwerp is an intrepid destination. Located in the heart of Europe, this Belgian treasure is one of the world's busiest ports. Located eighty eight kilometers out from the North Sea and neighboring the port of Brussels, the strategic port of Antwerp is Europe's second largest port and the world's fourth largest. The port's impressive estuary is able to accommodate ships weighing more than 100,000 gross tons.
Antwerp is a modern port with a long history. It was most likely a departure point during time of antiquity. The port truly shined during the 16th Century when numerous docks were added and trade flourished based on the exporting of goods produced locally and in the Netherlands. These goods left the port headed for France, Spain, and African commerce centers. Series of wars and subsequent blockades were a low point for the port, but the modern potential of Antwerp emerged when Napoleon Bonaparte saw so much promise in this port's location that in 1811 he ordered the construction of its first lock and dock. This was a renaissance for the port and led the way for the thriving port as it stands today.
In the aftermath of World War II, the Port of Antwerp was one of the only ports in Europe that had not been destroyed. A post-war boom included the construction of additional docks and an introduction to oil refining. In the 1960's the first container ship arrived at the port, heralding an onslaught of heavy container traffic.
The City of Antwerp is a traveler's dream. A true European city, it is rich with medieval history and updated, modern accommodations. The port brings a convergence of cultural influences from around the world while it celebrates its own trademark architecture, art and tastes. The bustling streets are full of restaurants and pubs. Visitors can experience authentic Belgian cuisine and an array of international offerings that port life brings.
The list of must-see spots throughout the city includes the Plantin Moretus Museum, the more than 5,000 animals housed in the Antwerp Zoo, and an underground tour of the city. Like any ancient European city, Antwerp has it secrets. This intrigue can be explored by visiting the original city of Antwerp that lay underneath the modern city. The original city was buried over when pollution and open sewer overwhelmed the live of the city.
Famous for its diamond trade, Antwerp is an avid jewelry shopper's dream. The city's diamond district boasts over 1500 diamond businesses. Everyone who steps foot in this enchanted port city must find their way to the Diamond District, which is home to 1500 distinct diamond companies.
The Port of Antwerp is truly an international port that every traveler should experience. The mix of history, culture and once in a lifetime shopping opportunities makes it a top world travel spot.