The Hofkamer
Visit to the Hofkamer | entrance ticket only in combination with the guided tour
This ticket is only valid if you also book Visit to the Hofkamer | guided tour
The Hofkamer (The Courtly Ceremonial Chamber) is a stunning building in the garden of the historical site Den Wolsack (meaning bag of wool). The original heart of the structure goes back all the way to the 16th century and has since then been used for a variety of purposes. The task of renovating the Hofkamer was bestowed upon an anonymous architect by the merchant Adriaan Van den Bogaert and his wife Maria Anna Roggens in the year 1772. The façade was moved one metre to the front and was decorated with the newest designs. It became a sumptuous reception hall which displayed the wealth, luxury and status of the proprietors.
Available time slots
To see if the desired time slot is available, enter the number of participants under ‘Group size (Group ticket)’, choose the guide language and select the date.
From 06/09/2021 10:00 pm (UTC) until 31/12/2025 10:59 pm (UTC)
The crowning glory of the Hofkamer is undoubtedly the majestic ceiling painting Gods of the mountain Olympus. This canvas was painted by an anonymous artist in 1772. Its placement in the Hofkamer was commissioned by a merchant’s family. With its surface of 65 m2 it has been named the largest canvas ceiling painting in western Europe!
The first floor houses the renowned toilet of books. It was the most luxurious lavatory of its time. The room was moulded precisely after a real library, which is why the unrecognisable toilet bowl looks like a pile of books. Both of these highlights are unique heritage features in Belgium.
Practical information:
- This entrance ticket is for group visits only
- Duration: 90 minutes
Contact details for visitors
2000 Antwerpen