"Between the Antwerp and Brussels" Mechelen by indre_dee

The town of Mechelen (in French: Malines) is situated half-way between Brussels and Antwerp. It has about 75.000 inhabitants. The town was founded in the early Middle-Ages on the banks of the river Dijle. It is a pleasant typical Flemish city. The town centre is a low-traffic area, which makes Mechelen a pleasant shopping city. On Saturdays the main shopping streets 'Bruul' and 'IJzerenleen' are visited by all the people of the city itself and the neighbouring villages.

St. Rumbold's Tower

The landmark of Mechelen is the huge St. Rumbold's Tower. This impressive late-medieval tower can be seen from far away. Standing close to the tower it is immediately clear that the tower was designed to become very high. The construction was stopped in the 16th century because the town of Mechelen had financial problems.

Mechelen is a small and picturesque city that is big on charm and history. It is a city thriving with quaint shops, car-free areas and amazingly pleasant little squares but is probably best known for its carillon school where students from all over the world come to learn to play church bells. One of the most pleasant experiences to have in Mechelen is to sit outside at a café sipping on a local beer while listening to the delightful bell music coming from the sky.

• Pros:Mechelen is a city for all ages.
• In a nutshell:The grace of centuries old palaces and majestic churches appeal to everyone.