Het Steen (The Stone) is a castle at the river Scheldt. The castle has been renovated and adapted numerous times during its history. Most likely the castle was originally a part of the city wall and dating back from the 13th century. In 1520 the castle was renovated and extended by architects Keldermans and De Waghemakere. For a long time (1549-1823) the castle was used as a prison. In 1862 it became an archaeological museum. When the castle was renovated between 1889 and 1890, they also added a wing in neo-gothic style. Since 1952 Steen is the location for the Maritime Museum.

Steen Castle - Antwerpen visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'Steen Castle' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Antwerpen.

Het Steen in Antwerp is one of the oldest forts in Europe, founded around 700 AD. It was sacked by Norse seamen around 800AD and then rebuilt in the 900's as part of the defenses of the Holy Roman Empire. The modern structure probably dates from the 13C. Outside the castle is a cross where the condemned would pray before execution during the time it was used as a prison. Later on Pieter Paul Rubens lived in Het Steen during his latter years. Today Steen Castle houses The National Maritime Museum (National Scheepvaartmuseum), the only general maritime museum in Belguim.

Het Steen features on Antwerp's coat of arms flanked by a pair of hands. The story behind the hands can be found on the Grote Markt panorama.

National Maritime Museum
Steenplein 1
B-2000 Antwerp

Metro: Groenplaats
Tram: Groenplaats (2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 15)