Best attractions and places to see around Schilde, a municipality in the Antwerp province of Belgium, offer a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural points of interest. The area features historic estates, parks, and remnants of older structures. While many notable attractions are located in the nearby city of Antwerp, Schilde itself provides opportunities for exploration.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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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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A tunnel for cyclists and pedestrians under the Scheldt.
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Rubens is present in Antwerp, both on the square and with his works in the cathedral.
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Wonderful market square with beautiful house facades. Great restaurants and cafes on the square.
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The Brabo fountain is very impressive. And the story behind it...😉
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Why is Groenplaats called Groenplaats? In 1805 it became Place Bonaparte. The square was only given the name Groenplaats under Dutch rule and refers to the old name 'Groenkerhof'. In 2025, the Groenplaats in Antwerp will receive a thorough makeover. So there will be some disruption that year.
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Schilde offers several natural areas for exploration. The municipal domain of Schildehof features a serene park landscape with a pond and extensive woodlands, perfect for relaxation. You can also find the historic Antitankgracht, which provides opportunities to explore local history within a natural setting. The Dobbelhoeve farm practices organic agriculture and is another point of interest.
Yes, Schilde has its own historical sites. The Schildehof domain, also known as Schilde Castle, is a historic estate with parkland and the Dodoenstuin, a 16th-century Renaissance herb garden. While the original castle is mostly remnants, its basement floor is still visible. The Schans van Schilde is also listed as a top attraction within the municipality.
The area around Schilde is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and gravel biking. For specific routes, explore the hiking guide for Schilde, the cycling guide for Schilde, or the gravel biking guide for Schilde.
Many attractions in the broader region are family-friendly. In nearby Antwerp, you can visit the Grote Markt Antwerp, explore Het Steen, or see the Brabo Fountain. These sites are categorized as family-friendly and offer engaging experiences for all ages. The Schildehof park also provides open space for families to enjoy.
The city of Antwerp, located about 10-14 kilometers from Schilde, boasts several significant historical landmarks. These include the Grote Markt Antwerp, the iconic Brabo Fountain, and Het Steen, Antwerp's oldest building. The magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also a must-see.
Yes, several prominent attractions in nearby Antwerp are noted as wheelchair-accessible. These include the Grote Markt Antwerp, the Brabo Fountain, and Groenplaats and the Rubens Statue, Antwerp. These central locations offer accessible pathways for visitors.
For hiking enthusiasts, there are several popular routes. You can explore trails like the "View of the Green Plains – Vraagheide Forest Trails loop from Sint-Job-in-'t-Goor" or the "Wouwerse Beemden – Veteran Tree WWI loop from Antwerp." For a comprehensive list and details, refer to the hiking guide for Schilde.
Absolutely. Schilde is a great starting point for cycling. Routes include the "Zoerselbos Gravel Trail – Fort Oelegem loop from Schilde" and the "Antwerp City Hall – Het Steen loop from Schilde." More options and details can be found in the cycling guide for Schilde.
Schilde's attractions, particularly its parks and outdoor historical sites like Schildehof, are best enjoyed during the milder months. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the Dodoenstuin herb garden and woodlands. The nearby city attractions in Antwerp are accessible year-round, but spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures for walking around the city squares.
Many natural areas and parks around Schilde are suitable for dog walking. The extensive woodlands within the Schildehof domain offer space for walks. When exploring, always ensure dogs are kept on a leash where required and respect local regulations regarding pets in public spaces.
Beyond Schilde's own historical sites, the nearby city of Antwerp is a hub for cultural attractions. The Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp is a significant religious and architectural marvel. You can also visit the Groenplaats with its Rubens Statue, or explore the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) for art and culture.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The Grote Markt Antwerp is often highlighted for its charisma and historical splendor, with its 16th-century buildings and the Brabo Fountain. The Cathedral of Our Lady is admired for its impressive architecture and rich history. The serene park landscapes of Schilde itself also offer a peaceful escape.


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