Mechelen

Mechelen is a city in Belgium that quietly holds one of the most musical souls in all of Europe. Centuries ago it served as the capital of a vast European empire, and that grand history shaped the beautiful churches, palaces, and cobbled streets you can explore today. The towering Gothic spire of Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral rises above the rooftops and can be seen from miles around, while the elegant Palace of Margaret of Austria speaks of a time when this compact city was truly at the centre of the world.

What really sets Mechelen apart, though, is its extraordinary love of bells. The city is home to the only school on the planet dedicated to the ancient art of carillon playing, drawing students from countries far and wide to learn this unique musical craft. Beyond the music, you can discover centuries of toys, moving wartime history, and a peaceful UNESCO-listed neighbourhood, all packed into one surprisingly exciting city.

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Quick fact

Mechelen, known in French as Malines, was once the capital of the Habsburg Netherlands and is still famous worldwide for its extraordinary carillon bell-ringing tradition.

Fun fact

Mechelen is sometimes called the city of carillons because it is home to the only carillon school in the world — the Royal Carillon School — where students travel from dozens of countries to learn to play bells!

Landmarks

Saint Rumbold's Cathedral

The enormous tower of this Gothic cathedral was planned to be the tallest in the world, and even unfinished it dominates the city skyline and holds a world-famous set of bells.

Mechelen Toy Museum

This utterly delightful museum is filled with toys from across the centuries — from ancient spinning tops and tin robots to elaborate dolls' houses — making it a paradise for curious kids.

Palace of Margaret of Austria

This elegant Renaissance palace was home to Margaret of Austria, one of the most powerful women in 16th-century Europe, and you can still admire its beautiful courtyard today.

Groot Begijnhof

This tranquil walled village of red-brick houses within the city was once home to a community of religious women called Beguines and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dossin Barracks Memorial Museum

This deeply important museum and memorial honours the memory of Jewish people and others who were deported from Mechelen during World War Two, helping visitors understand why we must never forget history.