More than 1,100 historic landmarks will open their doors on 14 September for Flanders’ Open Monument Day, with Antwerp taking centre stage as the host city for the event’s 37th edition.
This year’s festival will feature around 150 activities in the host city alone. The event, which is free to attend, aims to inspire a diverse audience of all ages by offering a wide range of experiences, from guided tours at the Roosenberg Abbey in Waasmunster to steam train rides in Baasrode and children’s Sgraffito workshops in Merelbeke-Melle. Fans of architectural styles, military heritage, and landscape design will also find plenty to explore.
To promote the activities, Open Monument Day is collaborating with five pairs of ambassadors spread across Flanders. For instance, project engineer Thybris Gerin and Sister Stéphanie are working to open the 800-year-old Beguinage of Bruges to visitors, with the goal of preserving it for future generations. Meanwhile, Kaat and Patty are shining a light on the art deco charm of the Mgr Stillemansstraat in Sint-Niklaas.
Antwerp, as host city, is placing a spotlight on its extensive religious heritage under the theme “Sacred Spaces.” Acting mayor Els Van Doesburg clarified that the focus will extend beyond Christian heritage to include treasures such as synagogues. For those seeking a unique experience, there will be a film evening in five churches on 11 September.
For visitors looking for a more active programme, Leuven is offering a bicycle tour as part of celebrations marking the 600th anniversary of KU Leuven. The tour will take participants past some of the university’s most beautiful, significant, and historic sites.
Open Monument Day 2025 will continue to evolve, with plans to honour its theme “In Style” by highlighting an array of architectural styles, remarkable architects, and iconic façades.
