Zurenborg, Art Nouveau quarter in Antwerp, Belgium
Zurenborg is a residential quarter in Antwerp featuring houses decorated between 1894 and 1906 with intricate stone carvings, ornate ironwork, stained glass windows, and decorative tiles. Over 170 of these buildings hold protected status and display varied architectural designs.
This neighborhood emerged in the late 1800s as Antwerp's port trade flourished, prompting wealthy merchants to build large residences in the expanding city. This period of growth resulted in the creation of a new residential district with contemporary design for the upper class.
Homes along Cogels Osylei each carry distinct names inspired by nature, such as The Sunflower, The Rose, and The Tulip, reflecting the design philosophy of the period. These botanical references show how residents wanted to celebrate the natural world through their living spaces.
Walking tours depart from Dageraadplaats and guide visitors through the architecturally significant streets of the quarter. Comfortable shoes are advisable since exploring the area involves plenty of walking on foot.
Three streets here bear names honoring the South African independence movement: Pretoriastraat, Transvaalstraat, and Krugerstraat. This naming choice reflects the international attention the Boer Wars received in Europe around 1900.
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