Carolus Borromeus Church (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Carolus Borromeus Church?
What makes it 64% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter free, can follow a 30-minute audio-game trail and join the 17:00 children’s liturgy, yet there is no play area, no interactive crafts and they must stay quiet in the sacred space.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids under 12: Children under 12 visit self-guided and use the audio game at no charge.
- Seasonal art variety: Rotating Rubens paintings give a fresh experience each season.
Challenges:
- Narrow aisles and pews: Strollers can block pew aisles. Use a compact stroller or carry young children.
- Limited restroom facilities: Restrooms lack changing tables. Bring a portable mat for diaper changes.
What is Carolus Borromeus Church?
- A Baroque church built in Antwerp between 1615 and 1621, epitomizing the Counter-Reformation’s architectural and artistic ambitions
- A limestone and light-yellow edifice framed by twin octagonal bell towers and an elaborately scrolled pediment
- An interior lavishly adorned with stucco reliefs, sculpted cherubs, original Rubens ceiling caissons and four seasonally rotated altarpieces
What is so special about Carolus Borromeus Church for with kids?
- Interactive audio trail keeps kids engaged.
- Free entry and audio for children under 12.
- Seasonal Rubens paintings offer varied art displays.
- Lace museum in the crypt provides a unique underground visit.
- Sunday children’s liturgy adds hands-on fun for young visitors.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore the nave, take the kids’ audio trail and visit the lace museum without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Carolus Borromeus Church
Self-guided Baroque tour:
Walk the main nave and admire Rubens ceiling panels and ornate wood carvings.
Tip: Pick up a free floor plan at the entrance and point out art details to kids.
Children’s interactive audio game:
Follow a 30-min audio trail where paintings and sculptures ‘speak’ to children.
Tip: Rent it early; use headphones to keep noise low for other visitors.
Lace Museum in the crypt:
Explore historic lace exhibits displayed in the church’s crypt.
Tip: Buy tickets (€4 per person) at the entrance and visit first to avoid crowds.
Sunday children’s liturgy:
Join the 17:00 service with a special liturgy and activities for kids.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to grab seats near the front for best engagement.
Family behind-the-scenes tour:
Private group tour of the sacristy, pulpit dais and St John of Nepomuk reliquary.
Tip: Book ahead via email; small groups up to 20 can include children free of charge.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Carolus Borromeus Church
- Visit at opening: Arrive at 10:00 to secure audio sets and avoid other tour groups.
- Plan with online map: Download the church floor plan to highlight exhibits and art stops for kids.
- Use a lightweight stroller: A collapsible stroller navigates narrow aisles more easily.
Reviews of Carolus Borromeus Church
Linda Bailey
A beautiful Jesuit church with much history and beauty! Genuine Rubens artwork and designs, gorgeous woodwork throughout and the original marble floor from the 1600’s. The painting at the altar is changed 4 times a year. Quite unusual and is still done to this day. We were fortunate to be there (2 pm on Sat) when a guide was available for a tour of the church. She was excellent gave such a good i...
Monika Karlińska
Great place to visit. A 17th-century church with ornate Baroque works of art and architecture and four altar paintings replaced each season. Around you can find many nice restaurants
Jarrod Leeds
A truly beautiful Baroque church. The entrance price is well worth it. There are many beautiful paintings, including a Rubens. The woodwork is also amazing.
Caius Bernardi
An amazing and unique baroque church in Antwerp, with some Rubens paintings worth of a visit. The church hosts as well a museum and workshop of artistic laces. The access is included in the Antwerp City Pass. Recommended
Graham Short
The interior with its running balcony set back windows is very unique. The baroque alter full of gold is quite a centerpiece.
When is the best time to visit Carolus Borromeus Church (Antwerp, Belgium)?
The four main altar paintings are rotated seasonally. Check the church website before your visit to see which Rubens masterpiece is on display.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult audio trail ticket (2×€5) | EUR 10 |
| Lace museum tickets (4×€4) | EUR 16 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 26 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Carolus Borromeus Church
Address: Hendrik Conscienceplein, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
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About Carolus Borromeus Church
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+32 477 62 37 9410 BEST nearby Activities
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