In the heart of Antwerp's historic center lies a place that many passersby are unaware of. Behind the doors of Het Archief is the former Provincial Archive of Antwerp, a remarkable building from 1851 where a large part of the original cast-iron interior has been preserved.
On September 13, 2026, Open Monument Day provides the perfect opportunity to discover this hidden historical site.
From Provincial Archive to Wine Bar
The building was established in 1851 as the Provincial Archive of Antwerp. Today, those who step inside can still clearly see traces of its original function.
The open archive floors, the largely preserved cast-iron interior, and the monumental spiral staircase give the building a character that you wouldn't immediately expect while walking through the historic center.
It is a piece of Antwerp where history is not displayed behind glass but is still very much a part of the building itself.
Long Hidden from the Public
What makes this location particularly special is that for most of its history, the building was hardly accessible to the public.
As a result, many Antwerpians have never had the chance to view the interior, despite its central location in the city.
This changed in 2022. The former archive found a new purpose as the wine bar Het Archief and became accessible to everyone once again.
Historical Architecture with a New Purpose
Instead of erasing the past, history today forms an important part of the experience.
The old archive structure and architectural elements remain largely visible, creating a unique combination of historical heritage and contemporary urban life.
You come here today for a glass of wine, but at the same time, you step into a piece of 19th-century Antwerp history.
Discover Het Archief During Open Monument Day
On Sunday, September 13, Het Archief will participate in Open Monument Day. A wonderful opportunity to not only explore the wine bar but especially to discover the story behind this unique location.
For lovers of architecture, history, and hidden places in Antwerp, this is an address to add to your itinerary.
Het Archief was voted Best Wine Bar in Antwerp in 2024 and 2025, but during Open Monument Day, the special past of the building takes center stage.
A Hidden Piece of Antwerp
Antwerp is full of buildings that you walk past daily without knowing the story behind them. The former Provincial Archive is a fine example of this.
A building from 1851, long hardly accessible to the public, has today regained a place in the daily life of the city.
On September 13, during Open Monument Day, you will have an extra reason to step inside yourself.
Practical Info
📍 Het Archief, Antwerp
📅 Sunday, September 13, 2026
🏛 Open Monument Day
