Rubens in Stone
A masterful Baroque walk in Mechelen
Rubens in Stone takes you on an inspiring journey through the Baroque universe of Mechelen's Lucas Faydherbe (1617 - 1697), and Peter Paul Rubens, his mentor. Walk with us through Mechelen's historic city centre and explore the three churches that provided the master with much of his work: Saint Rumbold's Cathedral, the Church of Our Lady across the Dijle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Hanswijk.
Chat with the master himself on WhatsApp and discover his special connection - or friendly rivalry - with his mentor, Rubens. Become a true Baroque hunter and search the masterpieces in his impressive
body of work. With a touch of humour, Lucas guides you through his greatest achievements. Inside the churches, come even closer to the Baroque master through immersive visual and audio experiences. You follow a route between the three churches. Lucas Faydherbe points the way.
What will you see?
- In Saint Rumbold's Cathedral, you are welcomed by Lucas Faydherbe and shown in great detail the majestic high altar and the tomb of Archbishop Cruesen. Learn more about Mechelen's burgeoning Baroque period.
- In the Church of Our Lady across the Dijle, you will see The
Miraculous Draught of Fishes by Rubens. A modern counterpart to this Baroque masterpiece comes in the shape of a work by contemporary artist Mickey Yang, which offers food for thought. - In the Basilica of Our Lady of Hanswijk you take a seat at
architect Faydherbe's drawing table. He designed this Baroque
pilgrimage church as one of the first domed churches in the Low
Countries. Admire the beautiful bozzetti - terracotta models for the sculptures under the dome - which are now recognised as Flemish masterpieces.
Practical information
- Available as of September 9, 2025.
- Admission to the walk: €8 per device.
- Duration - about 120 minutes
- Opening hours in high season (April - October) -
Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 17:00. Sunday 13:00 - 17:00. - Opening hours in low season (November - March) -
Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 16:00. Sunday 13:00 - 16:00.
Rubens in Stone Class Tour
Release your pupils into the city as expert Baroque explorers, and discover it from a new perspective! The new Rubens in Stone experience trail takes your class on a journey through the work of Baroque master Lucas Faydherbe, one of Rubens' favourite pupils. Many of his artworks are tucked away in Mechelen's historic churches. Armed with a smartphone, your pupils hit the streets alongside the master himself.
