Antwerp
One of the most important cities in Belgium is located on the right bank of the river Schedt and directly linked to the North Sea. According to the legend its name is originated from the name of the giant Antigoon who lived in the river and collected a toll from all who dared crossing the river. Antwerp reached the apogee of its economic growth in the 16th century being one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. At that time it was also a cultural and artistic center. Its famous school of painting produced one of the greatest artists of the Flemish School, such as Rubens, Van Dyck, the Teniers, etc.Today Antwerp's economy is geared mainly by the port. The sea port of the city ranks at 17th position in the world as to tonnage and is the second in Europe preceded only by Rotterdam. The second major industry is diamond trade. The city has 4 diamond bourses and has become the core of many rumors and legends about mystic diamond thieves and stories. Arts and crafts have an upheaval too. The city is one of the newest fashion centers and has an amazing development, especially with excellent designers such as the Antwerp 6. The Academy of Fine Arts in the city keeps on educating the young talents of Belgium and Europe.
Antwerp remains a major tourist attraction today. In the past it was a fortified city but unfortunately few remained till nowadays. The enceinte is almost entirely demolished as most of the fortification and only Het Steen survived. The name means literally "The Stone" and is an impressive remaining of the former fortress. Besides the old city, the many museums and impressive galleries, the Cathedral of Our Lady is another must in Antwerp.