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St

TIME : 2016/2/18 16:37:19

Dominating the central Grote Markt and indeed the whole city, this vast, robust cathedral features a Van Dyck crucifixion on the right as you enter and dozens more fine artworks below the stained glasswork of the apse.

But by far its most notable feature is the gobsmacking 15th-century tower, soaring 97m. Climbing it takes at least 40 minutes return (over 500 steps), for which the rewards are brilliant views from the new rooftop viewing platform. It's unsheltered, so avoid it in heavy rain, and consider booking ahead during major holidays, as space is limited. During the climb you'll see a human treadmill once used to bring up building materials, plus the impressive 49-bell carillon, which rings out across town during summer’s hour-long carillon concerts.