Not far from the Meir in Antwerp you will find St. James’ Church, which was built in the 15th and 16th centuries. This Gothic church is not only the starting point for pilgrims who are on a pilgrimage to the tomb of the apostle James in Santiago de Compostela. The Antwerp Saint James’ Church is also famous for the tomb of Peter Paul Rubens. This is where the painter found his final resting place. Did you know that Rubens himself chose the painting for the altar? His own Our Lady Surrounded by Saints.
The church is currently under restoration and the burial chapel of Rubens is therefore not accessible. However, the result of the restoration can already be admired in the part of the church that is accessible, such as the murals that were exposed during the restoration.