Vlaeykensgang, Antwerp

Walking from the Oude Koornmarkt through the gate into the picturesque Vlaeykensgang (Vlaaikensgang) transports you to another era. The Vlaeykensgang is a medieval alley and one of Antwerp's must-see attractions. An oasis of calm, this small alley is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Dating back to the year 1591, the alley was home to Antwerp's poorest people who lived along with the cobblers who were tasked to ring the emergency bell of the cathedral.

As in many modern cities, there were plans to demolish the medieval street in 1960 to make way for some modern buildings. 

Luckily, there was Axel Vervoordt.  At the youthful age of 21, the famed Belgian antiques and art dealer stumbled upon the shrouded medieval Vlaeykensgang and decided to buy it saving it from imminent demolition.
Together with his wife, he took on the mammoth task of buying and restoring the 11 historic houses saving the medieval alleyway.
​Nowadays, you find antiques dealers and restaurants in the alley making it the perfect getaway from todays busy life. During the summer months on a Monday evening (8pm to 9pm), it is the perfect location to listen to the Cathedral's carillon concert (beiaardconcert). During those evenings, the city carillonneurs and guest players play the most diverse songs which resound from the Cathedral's tower across the city.

Accessible through a small doorway at number 16 in the Oude koornmarkt, make sure that you don't miss the entrance.