Diamant

The Diamond district is a well-known district in Antwerp, a must-see for every visitor. But why exactly?

The city of Antwerp has an interesting relationship with the diamond trade. Every year, the total amount traded exceeds a value of 25 billion euro. For centuries, Antwerp has been the world’s most important diamond hub. 84% of the world’s mined diamonds ends up in Antwerp. The diamond trade was originally entirely in the hands of the Jewish community. But in recent years, the diamond trade has attracted more and more Indian diamond traders.

Right at the heart of the Diamond district lays Antwerp’s railway station (Centraal Station). 40.000 tourists, students, locals, visitors and commuters pass through those halls every day. But Antwerp’s Central Station is more than a mere railway station. It’s a beautiful monument and a testament to Antwerp’s rich cultural history. It was even awarded the title ‘the most beautiful railway station’ in 2014. So be sure to take your time to admire both the interior and exterior.

If you love animals, the Diamond district is definitely worth a visit. Right next to Antwerp’s Central Station, you’ll find the ZOO. The ZOO opened its doors on July 21, 1843, making it the oldest zoo in Belgium and one of the oldest zoos in the world. A little further up the street, on Astridplein, you come across Chocolate Nation. Chocolate Nation is an interactive chocolate experience. After a visit, you will fully understand where Belgium’s fascination with chocolate stems from.

De Keyserlei is a large boulevard that connects Central Station to the Meir, Antwerp’s most famous shopping street. De Keyserlei has a lot to offer. You can browse shops, go to the gym, catch a movie and grab a bite to eat. De Keyserlei is home to a variety of bars, restaurants and eateries. Granduca is definitely worth a visit if you are looking for a stylish dining experience. Do you want to try some of Belgium’s finest beers? Drop by Beer Central but remember not to drink and drive.

Do you want to visit the most beautiful railway station in the world and learn more about Antwerp’s rich cultural history? The Diamond district will not disappoint.