Antwerpen Vlaeykensgang

An alleyway you almost miss

Right in the centre of Antwerpen, within walking distance of the cathedral, lies the Vlaeykensgang. You can easily walk straight past it. That is precisely what makes it special. Behind an unassuming entrance at Oude Koornmarkt 16, a narrow lane opens up that takes you back about five centuries. Cobblestones, whitewashed facades, iron lanterns. No chain shops, no advertising boards. Just stone and quiet.

The passage dates from the 16th century and has been largely restored, though without feeling artificial. It is one of the best-preserved medieval alleyways in the city.

Light and timing

The Vlaeykensgang is narrow and partly covered, so direct sunlight barely plays a role here. That is actually an advantage. The diffuse light of an overcast day or early morning works best. You get no harsh shadows swallowing detail in the facades and cobblestones.

Early in the morning, before ten o'clock, the passage is almost deserted. Later in the day there is more tourist traffic, but that can work too if you want people in your frame. The alleyway has no natural light source of its own during the day, but the lanterns burn at dusk and cast a warm, old light. That transition from day to evening sometimes produces the finest results.

Composition and focal length

The passage is long and narrow, so leading lines are right there for the taking. Cobblestone by cobblestone, the perspective runs towards a vanishing point at the far end of the alley. A 35mm or 50mm lens works well here. Going wider is possible, but watch out for distortion of the facades. With a longer lens you can isolate details: a weathered window frame, the brickwork, a lantern.

Shooting from a low position pushes the perspective even further. Figures in the distance add scale and atmosphere. One person in the right spot in the frame is enough.

Practical

The Vlaeykensgang is free to enter and open all year round. The easiest way to park is in one of the car parks in the city centre, for example near the Meir or close to the cathedral. The alleyway is less than a five-minute walk from either. You do not need a permit to photograph for personal use. Different rules apply for commercial shoots; for those you contact the city of Antwerpen.

Sources and further reading

• Vlaeykensgang – Toerisme Antwerpen
• Vlaeykensgang – Wikipedia
• Stad Antwerpen – Evenementen en opnames op openbaar domein