Antwerp’s St. Carolus Borromeus Church Plans Museum Expansion
Antwerp (Eurotoday) – The historic St. Carolus Borromeus Church in Antwerp, which is 400 years old, is enhancing its visitor experience by introducing a new information desk, multilingual audio guides, and themed tours. Chairman Olivier Lins has also revealed plans for a future museum.
The church council in Antwerp aims to make the church more welcoming by expanding it into a museum. Their goal is to provide an enjoyable experience for both local and international visitors. As part of this initiative, they have introduced several improvements, including an information desk inside the church where visitors can get details about the site.
Additionally, a new audio guide is now available in five languages, offering insights into the church’s rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can choose from three different tour options: a comprehensive tour for those who want to explore in depth, a shorter version for those with limited time, and a special tour designed specifically for children.
“This church is a real monument with visitors from home and abroad, but it was time to bring our public activities into the 21st century,”
says Olivier Lins.
Transforming St. Carolus Borromeus into a Cultural Hub
For those who prefer reading over listening, the church also offers a printed guide. This ensures that all visitors, regardless of their preferred learning method, can fully appreciate the site’s cultural and historical significance. The council aims to make the church more engaging while preserving its heritage. With the introduction of new features such as the audio guide and reception desk, they hope to create a more inviting atmosphere.
“We want to tell the history of the whole site,”
explains Olivier Lins, chairman of the church council.
Approximately 60,000 people visit the church each year. In the past, entry was free, which brought in more visitors, but today’s attendees are primarily those with a genuine interest in the church’s history and artwork. The church plans to transform both the building and its surroundings into a historical and cultural landmark. Discussions with the city and government are ongoing regarding the possibility of turning the area into a museum.
If approved, the project is expected to take around five years to complete. Despite the upcoming changes, visitors can continue exploring the church during the transition.
“This church is a real party hall, where all the walls speak,”
adds Olivier Lins.
St. Carolus Borromeus Church, originally built in 1621, has witnessed numerous historical events. Notably, in 1718, a fire destroyed several paintings by renowned artist Peter Paul Rubens. Another major fire occurred in 2009, but the church was restored, and new lighting was installed.
As many churches are being repurposed due to declining attendance, the council acknowledges this shift. However, they are committed to maintaining St. Carolus Borromeus Church as both a place of worship and a center for learning about history and culture. Their ongoing efforts aim to ensure that the church remains accessible and engaging for all visitors.
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