Best attractions and places to see around Boechout include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. This municipality in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, offers green spaces, parks, and agricultural landscapes. Visitors can explore medieval castles, historical mills, and areas known for Belle Époque architecture. The region also features popular routes for cycling and walking.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
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Highlight • Monument
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Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Highlight • Castle
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The Brabo Fountain is one of Antwerp's most iconic monuments and is located on the Grote Markt, in front of the City Hall. The fountain tells the legend of the giant Druon Antigoon and the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo. According to tradition, Druon Antigoon demanded a high toll from ships that wanted to pass the Scheldt. If skippers refused to pay, he chopped off their hand and threw it into the river. Silvius Brabo, a brave soldier, defeated the giant, chopped off Antigoon's hand in turn and threw it into the Scheldt. This legend is said to be the origin of the name "Antwerp" (derived from "hand werpen"). The fountain, designed by Jef Lambeaux and unveiled in 1887, shows Brabo triumphantly throwing away the giant's hand. The sculpture is full of dynamism and symbolism, surrounded by water spouts and smaller figures that refer to the Scheldt and the sea. The Brabo Fountain is not only a tribute to a folk tale, but also a beautiful work of art and a beloved symbol of the city of Antwerp.
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Located directly on the Schlede and centrally in Antwerp, I didn't expect to see this magnificent castle there. The castle looks like one of the medieval castles from the earlier knight films. I found it very fascinating. The castle is also Antwerp's oldest building. Of course, it can also be visited.
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The ceremonial unveiling of the sculpture took place on August 21, 1887. It depicts the young hero Silvius Brabo throwing the severed hand of the giant Druon Antigon, whom he had previously defeated in battle, into the Scheldt. According to tradition, this is where the name of the city comes from, "throwing hand".
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Wonderful market square with beautiful house facades. Great restaurants and cafes on the square.
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Modern iron bridge over the canal.
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The Brabo fountain is very impressive. And the story behind it...😉
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The legend of Brabo and the history of the origins of Antwerp was created in the 15th century. The story is the merging of various older legends such as the story of the Swan Knight, Tristan and Isolde, ... The literary history of the origins has already been extensively researched. An important moment is the oldest known written record of the story in its current form by Willem van Berchem and the publication Van den Dorpe in which the story not only appears in print for the first time, but is also provided with an illustration and thus the iconographic tradition of the Brabo legend begins. At that time, Brabo is still depicted as a medieval knight. From the 16th century onwards, the iconography evolves, with Brabo being depicted as a Roman soldier. This will be changed for the first time by Jef Lambeaux by depicting the figures (both Brabo and the giant 'Antigoon') naked. The story also remains popular in literature. The legend of the origins is a powerful symbol for the freedom of Antwerp, mainly in terms of shipping and trade. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Beautiful bridge constructions over the Dijle and the Nete. The bridges are a very important link in the region for commuting and recreation. Bridges connect people and landscapes. Know that it is quite busy here on weekends.
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Boechout offers several historical landmarks. You can visit Kasteel Selsaete, a medieval castle with picturesque parkland, or Den Steenen Molen, a functioning post mill from 1782 that served as an oil and grain mill. The municipality is also known for its stately Belle Époque homes and castles, along with examples of cottage style, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco architecture.
Yes, several significant historical sites in Antwerp are easily accessible from Boechout. The Grote Markt Antwerp is a must-see, surrounded by 16th-century buildings including the Town Hall. In the center of the Grote Markt, you'll find the Brabo Fountain, depicting the legend of Brabo. Additionally, Het Steen, Antwerp's oldest preserved building, offers a glimpse into the city's past as a fortress and former prison, now serving as a visitor center.
Boechout is rich in green spaces, parks, and gardens. For a unique natural escape, explore the Knuppelpad en vlonder in Uilenbos, a bridge and pathway that helps navigate through muddy conditions in the Uilenbos forest. You can also experience the local rural environment by following the Oversteek agrarisch landschap path, which sometimes features livestock.
The region around Boechout is very popular for cycling. A highlight is the Netekanaal Cycle Path, offering smooth asphalt for faster cycling with no cars allowed. Another notable spot is the Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle, which is a key link for both commuting and recreation. Various scenic routes highlight the area's landscapes and history. For more detailed routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Boechout guide.
Yes, Boechout is a great starting point for off-road cycling. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, including loops around Vrieselhof Castle and Fort Oelegem. For gravel biking, there are routes through Zoerselbos and along the Nete. Detailed routes and guides are available in the MTB Trails around Boechout and Gravel biking around Boechout guides.
Many attractions in the Boechout area are suitable for families. The Grote Markt Antwerp and Brabo Fountain offer historical and cultural interest in a vibrant setting. Het Steen, with its castle history, is also considered family-friendly. Exploring the green spaces and cycling paths like the Netekanaal Cycle Path can also be enjoyable for families.
Yes, several attractions in the area are noted for their accessibility. The Grote Markt Antwerp, the Brabo Fountain, the Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle, and the Netekanaal Cycle Path are all categorized as wheelchair-accessible, offering inclusive experiences for visitors.
The best time to visit Boechout's attractions largely depends on your interests. For outdoor activities like cycling and exploring green spaces, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer (June-August) is ideal for enjoying the longer daylight hours and vibrant atmosphere, though it can be busier. Historical sites and architectural tours can be enjoyed year-round.
Boechout is renowned for its diverse architectural styles. You'll find stately Belle Époque homes and castles, alongside examples of cottage style, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco architecture. A guided walk, often starting from St. Bavo Church, can immerse visitors in this fin-de-siècle atmosphere. For more information on guided tours focusing on Belle Époque architecture, you can visit visitlier.be.
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The Grote Markt Antwerp is loved for its charisma and historical splendor, while the Netekanaal Cycle Path is appreciated for its smooth surface and car-free environment, perfect for faster cycling. The Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle is noted for its beautiful construction and role in connecting landscapes.
Yes, Boechout is home to several notable castles. You can explore Kasteel Selsaete, known for its historical architecture and parkland. Other significant castles in the area include Kasteel Fruithof and Hof van Boechout, which are considered among the most spectacular sights in the municipality.
To experience Boechout's agricultural landscapes, follow the Oversteek agrarisch landschap path. This route provides an immersive experience of the local rural environment, often with livestock present, showcasing the municipality's farming heritage and scenic countryside.


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