Right behind the Grote Markt in Antwerp, at Oude Beurs 27, you can visit the beautiful monumental building Den Wolsack. The Hofkamer in the hidden courtyard garden will also be open to the public until October. Music in den Hof, live atmospheric music, will add cachet to your visit every first Sunday of the month, in the afternoon.
© Pixabay
Before then, delve into the splendour of this 18th-19th century (neo)classical mansion. Den Wolsack refers to the wool industry, which flourished in this district in the 14th century. How many references to this sheep's hair, such as ram's heads, can you count in this heritage gem?
In 1772, the wealthy owner had the conservatory converted into an office/reception room, in rococo style. Every last detail in this Hofkamer exuded sophistication, showcasing its luxury and prestige to the full extent. On the ground floor, the Greek gods look down on you from Mount Olympus. They seem to have ascended along the chimney and the walls to their lofty heights, so realistic is the depth effect that the otherwise unknown master has rendered in this ceiling painting, the largest on canvas in Western Europe. Another must-see is the luxurious toilet room on the first floor. The toilet bowl looks like a stack of books. But they are fake, just like all the books on the shelves. Before finally taking your place in the musical garden, why not take a quick look at the clock with double dial in the attic?
