Climbing St. Rumbold's Tower | Mechelen

Climbing St. Rumbold's Tower (Sint-Romboutstoren) in Mechelen, Belgium, is a rewarding experience that offers both a glimpse into the city's medieval past and spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area. St. Rumbold's Tower is part of the iconic St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, a Gothic church that dominates the Mechelen skyline. The tower, which is one of the tallest in Belgium, is a prominent landmark and a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and architecture of the region.

History and Significance of St. Rumbold’s Tower

Construction: The construction of the tower began in 1452 and took several centuries to complete. The original plan was to build the tower as part of the St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, but work on the structure continued well into the 16th century. The tower’s design is an excellent example of Gothic architecture, with pointed arches, intricate stonework, and high spires.

Purpose: St. Rumbold’s Tower was designed to be a bell tower for the cathedral, housing the large bells that were used to announce services, events, and time. It is also a symbol of the city’s importance during the medieval period, as many Flemish towns built tall towers as a sign of civic power and religious significance.

Height: The tower stands at 97 meters (318 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest towers in Belgium. It is an impressive structure and a central feature of the Mechelen skyline.

Climbing the Tower

Climbing Experience:

• To reach the top of St. Rumbold’s Tower, visitors must climb a spiral staircase that consists of around 514 steps. The climb is a bit challenging, as the stairs are narrow and steep, but it is part of the adventure, and the views at the top are well worth the effort.
• Along the way, there are intermediate stops where visitors can take a break and enjoy views of Mechelen's old town and other significant landmarks, such as the Mechelen Clock Tower, the Belfry, and the River Dijle.

View from the Top:

• Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mechelen and its surroundings. On clear days, you can see all the way to Brussels in the distance. The view from St. Rumbold’s Tower offers a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the city’s medieval architecture, including the Grote Markt, the Mechelen Clock Tower, and the surrounding countryside.
• The view from the top is particularly stunning during sunset or at night, when the city lights twinkle below.

The Bells:

• The tower houses several large bells, including a chiming bell that was originally used to mark the time for the city. Visitors can learn about the history of the bells and how they were used in the past.
• The sound of the bells ringing can be heard across the city, and there are certain times during the day when visitors can hear the bells chime as they ascend the tower.

Museum and Exhibits:

• Inside the tower, there is also a small museum that provides information about the history of St. Rumbold's Tower, the construction of the cathedral, and the role of the tower in Mechelen's history.
• The museum exhibits historical photographs, architectural plans, and models of the tower and cathedral, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the building’s significance over the centuries.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: The tower is generally open to the public year-round, but it’s advisable to check in advance for any seasonal changes in hours or special events that might affect access. It’s typically open during the daytime, with some extended hours during tourist seasons.

Tickets: Entry to the tower usually requires a ticket. Visitors can often purchase tickets directly at the cathedral or online in advance. There may also be discounts for groups or students, and sometimes tickets are bundled with other attractions in Mechelen.

Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the tower’s history, architecture, and significance. A guide will provide interesting facts and stories about the tower as you climb, enriching the experience with historical context.

Safety: The climb can be strenuous, so it’s important to be prepared for the physical effort required. The stairs can be steep and narrow, and there are no elevators, so it’s best suited for people who are in good physical condition. Some visitors may find the ascent challenging, especially if they have mobility issues.

Additional Tips

Comfortable Footwear: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the climb involves many steps and can take about 15-20 minutes to reach the top, depending on your pace.

Weather: On days when the weather is clear, the view from the top is exceptional. If it’s a rainy day, the view may be obscured, but the climb itself remains enjoyable for those interested in the architectural experience.

Combine with Other Attractions: St. Rumbold's Tower is located near the Grote Markt in the heart of Mechelen, so it’s easy to combine the climb with visits to other nearby attractions, such as the Mechelen Clock Tower, St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, and the Kazerne Dossin Museum.

Conclusion

Climbing St. Rumbold’s Tower is one of the top experiences in Mechelen. Not only does it provide a great workout, but it also allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the city, learn about its history, and connect with Mechelen’s rich medieval heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or just someone who enjoys a good climb, St. Rumbold’s Tower is a must-visit for anyone exploring Mechelen.