ANTWERP, BELGIUM

Yet another day trip, this time to the faded glory of Antwerp, once the most important centre of commerce in Europe because of its large natural port and access to the sea. It was this crucial positioning that also proved its undoing as its sea access was easily blockaded during the many territorial struggles between the 16th and 19th centuries. Even now, Antwerp's only access to the sea is through a channel, both sides of which are part of the Netherlands.

The Grote Markt, much like the Grand Place in Brussels, is lined by the splendour of the old guild houses. Just before this was taken we had been treated to a display of Belgian military marching and music in the square.

One end of the Grote Markt is dominated by the town hall, finished in 1564 and one of the oldest Renaissance buildings in the Low Countries.

The hugely impressive gothic Cathedral. Completed in 1521 and the largest in the Low Countries it also houses two massive Rubens' masterpieces.