New Museum Opening Soon in Antwerp
We are only a few weeks from the official opening of the new Museum Plantin-Moretus honouring pioneering printers Christoffel Plantijn and Jan Moretus and celebrating Antwerps dynamic cultural heritage.
The complex includes the printer former residence, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and striking new development including a 60 metre tower.
The company was originally founded in the 16th by Plantijn and was passed onto his son in law Jan Moretus. It remained in the Moretus family until 1876 when Edward Moretus sold it to the city of Antwerp. The museum contains incredible collections to typographical materials including and an amazing library.
Highlights of the collection include
- The two oldest surviving printing presses in the world
- Biblia Polyglotta – a Bible in 5 languages dating to late 16th century
- Highly significant works from the Enlightenment including works by humanist Justus Lipsius, mathematician Simon Stevin and biologist Andreas Vesalius
- 36 line Gutenberg Bible
- Paintings and drawings by Peter Paul Rubens
The original house is one of the most beautiful in Antwerp with richly decorated interiors and impressive library. Outside the courtyards and gardens create an idyllic space to contemplate and escape from modern life for a moment. Juxtaposed is the modern tower which stands as a beacon to the diversity and culture the port has bought to Antwerp.
The Museum Plantin-Moretus is situated in the Eilandje district, about 1.8km walk from the Astoria Hotel and near other Antwerp attractions including Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal (Cathedral of Our Lady) and MoMu. The museum officially opens on 17th May and we look forward to bringing you a full report!