Saint James's Church Antwerp

Saint James's Church in Antwerp is one of the richest and most art-historically valuable churches in the city. This late Gothic construction was built between 1491 and 1656 and houses an exceptional collection of artworks, including a Pietà by Otto van Veen, works by Jacob Jordaens, and the funerary monument of Peter Paul Rubens. Rubens is buried here in his own funerary chapel, which he designed and decorated himself with one of his last paintings, 'Mary with Child and Saints'.

Accessibility is partial. The main entrance on the Lange Nieuwstraat has a threshold, but is equipped with a portable ramp that is placed on request. Inside, the central nave is level and well reachable by wheelchair, with a view of most highlights. The Rubens funerary chapel lies a few steps higher and is not directly accessible by wheelchair, but can be partly viewed from the choir. Adapted toilets are limited in the parish office; public adapted toilets can be found in nearby hospitality venues or in the car park.

The church is close to the busy Meir and within walking distance of the Rubens House. The surrounding streets are mostly level but consist of old cobblestones. Disabled parking spaces can be found in the Meir and Oudaan car parks. A small admission fee is requested for a visit to the museum section, with discount for people with a disability and free admission for their companion.