Main Train Station in Antwerp

It's not a common practice for a train station to be among the most distinctive city landmarks. And even less so in a historical city like the Flemish Antwerp. While experts do not entirely agree on the specific architectural style of this building, it is most often referred to as Neo-Baroque, Neo-Renaissance, or partially as Art Nouveau. The historic railway station was built between 1895 and 1905, replacing the old railway station on the Brussels - Antwerp - Mechelen route. The stone building with a huge dome over the main hall was designed by architect Louis Delacenserie with a significant use of iron and glass. Meanwhile, the large-span steel structure over the railway platforms was designed by Clément Van Bogaert. The station building is a total of 185 m long and 44 m high. The viaduct leading to the station, designed by local architect Jan Van Asperen, is also noteworthy. From 1998 to 2007, the station spaces were expanded for high-speed trains, and Antwerp-Central also gained its underground section. The American weekly Newsweek ranked the station among the most beautiful railway stations in the world. The station building now has four levels. The main level (1) is the original historic building with galleries allowing views into the lower levels. On level (0), there are ticket sales and commercial spaces. The other levels are underground; the first (-1) is located 7 m below the surrounding terrain, and the second (-2) is already 18 m below street level and is used by high-speed trains and special intercity transport. A recent overhaul by a Belgian railway infrastructure specialist adds a futuristic character to the building. Trains now enter and exit the station at several levels, and the trench cut through the center provides dramatic views of the arriving and departing cars. The high-tech modern aesthetic is smoothly integrated with the older forms of the original hall, making circulation a breeze. It is a pinnacle of public transport.