Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex🏛 museum
Museum Plantin-Moretus in Antwerp, historic printing house and publishing firm.
🌐 museumplantinmoretus.be🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-17:00; Jan 1 off; May 1 off; Nov 1 off; Dec 25 o
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Plantin-Moretus Museum
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The Plantin-Moretus Museum in Antwerp is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the history of printing. It is located in the former residence and printing workshop of the Plantin and Moretus printing dynasties, who operated one of Europe's most influential printing houses in the 16th century. Christophe Plantin founded the business in 1555, producing monumental works such as the Polyglot Bible. The museum houses the two oldest surviving printing presses in the world, along with an extensive collection of ancient types and matrices. In 2005, it became the first museum ever to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visitors can explore the original printing rooms, the grand living quarters, and a magnificent library containing over 30,000 historic volumes.
- Location: Belgium
- Top sights: Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex · XPO · De groote witte Arend
- Nearby: Merksem (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 61 | 55 | 38 | 59 | 63 | 75 | 79 | 55 | 63 | 69 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Plantin-Moretus Museum in Antwerp is fully open to visitors as a UNESCO site. It showcases the only surviving 16th-century printing works and the family home.
Typical hours
The museum typically opens Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00, closed on Mondays. Public holidays may see schedule changes, so checking in advance is recommended.
Photography
Photography without flash and tripod is allowed in the exhibition rooms. The historic printing presses and the library offer excellent photo subjects.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours, longer if you have a keen interest. The extensive collection of old books and prints invites lingering.
Combine with
Combine the museum visit with a stroll on Antwerp's Grote Markt and a visit to the cathedral. The fashion and diamond districts are also nearby.
Getting there
The museum is in the heart of Antwerp, a 20-minute walk from the central station. Trams 2, 3, and 15 stop nearby.
Insider tip
Use the free audio guide to learn the stories behind the prints. Visit the museum on a weekday to experience it less crowded.
Geography
Facts
- The printing plant was founded in 1555 by Christophe Plantin.
- The museum houses the two oldest printing presses in the world, dating to 1600.
- The historic library contains more than 30,000 printed volumes.
- In 2005, it was the first museum to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The archives of the Officina Plantiniana are listed on the Memory of the World register.
- The museum possesses 13 original drawings by Peter Paul Rubens, a friend of the family.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Artifex Gallery
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Groenplaats
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Sint-Andrieskerk
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about this museum?
It houses the oldest printing presses in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
How much time should I plan for the visit?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to see the house and the workshop.
Is there a library there?
Yes, there is a magnificent historical library with thousands of old books.
Can you touch the old presses?
No, you cannot touch the originals, but demonstrations with replicas are often held.
Is there a garden?
Yes, there is a beautiful, quiet Renaissance garden in the inner courtyard.
Plantin-Moretus Museum: where is it located?
Plantin-Moretus Museum is located in Belgium.
Plantin-Moretus Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex, XPO, De groote witte Arend.
Plantin-Moretus Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Plantin-Moretus Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The Plantin-Moretus Museum in Antwerp is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the history of printing.
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