One of Antwerp’s most fascinating museums is the Rubens House, the former residence and workshop of the renowned Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens. Purchased by Rubens in 1610, this residence was his main home for the last 30 years of his life.
The city of Antwerp has owned the property since 1937, and it has been open to the public as a museum since 1946. This museum provides a glimpse into the life of a 17th-century nobleman, diplomat, architect, illustrator, and master painter.
Exploring Rubens House
Courtyard and Entry
Your tour begins at ground level in the courtyard, where you’ll experience the feel of Rubens’ personal ‘palazzo’, inspired by his years in Italy. From here, you step into the grand residence, walking through rooms adorned with period furnishings and an impressive collection of paintings and artifacts. Many items on display were part of Rubens’ personal collection, including sculptures, drawings, coins, and books.
Interior Rooms
The Parlor
In the Parlor, you’ll find 17th-century prints, considered the oldest pictures made of the Rubens House.
The Kitchen
The Kitchen features an open hearth, tiled walls, and a collection of typical kitchenware from the period, including pieces of Majolica pottery.
The Dining Room
In the Dining Room, you’ll see one of the museum’s highlights: one of only four self-portraits ever painted by Rubens.
The Art Room (Kunstkamer)
Moving through the house, you enter the Art Room (Kunstkamer), where Rubens, a distinguished resident and avid collector, displayed paintings and other art objects. Here, you’ll find a 17th-century oak and ebony Curio Cabinet made in Antwerp.
Semi-Circular Museum
Next, the Semi-Circular Museum, designed by Rubens, houses his collection of antique sculptures, including a marble bust of the Roman philosopher Seneca, acquired in Italy in 1608.
Upstairs: The First Floor Rooms
The Master Bedroom
On the second level, the Master Bedroom displays a portrait of Rubens and his son Albert.
The Small Bedroom
The Small Bedroom features a 17th-century wooden canopy bed.
The Corner Room
In the Corner Room, you can see a portrait of a young Anthony van Dyck, painted by Rubens.
The Family Room
In the Family Room, view paintings of Rubens’ grandparents by Jacob van Utrecht. From here, step onto the platform for a view of the gardens.
Rubens’ Studio
Return downstairs to visit the Large Studio, where Rubens and his team of students, assistants, and colleagues produced over 2500 paintings. Your tour of the house and grounds concludes here, or, if accessible, in the Flemish-Italian Renaissance Garden, restored in the 1940s. The garden pavilion, designed by Rubens, remains a focal point of this city garden.
Other Rooms
Other notable rooms in the Rubenshuis include the Serving Room, the Antechamber with its muted gold leather wall coverings, and the Linen Room with a working linen press.
Additional Works of Art
Additional works of art that may be on display during your visit include:
- William II, Prince of Orange by Anthony van Dyck, 1632
- The Feast of Saint Martin by an imitator of Maarten van Cleve, retouched by Rubens
- The Annunciation by Peter Paul Rubens, ca. 1608-1628
- The Infanta Isabella Wearing the Habit of the Poor Clares by Peter Paul Rubens, 1625
Historical Context
Born in Germany in 1577 to natives of Antwerp who fled persecution under Spanish rule, Peter Paul Rubens spent most of his adult life in Antwerp. He passed away in this home on the Wapper in May 1640 and is buried in the nearby Sint-Jacobskerk (St. James Church). The Rubenshuis is a museum truly worth the visit.
Getting There
The Rubens House is located at Wapper 9-11, a 12-minute walk from the Grote Markt.
Ticket Info
- Adult Admission: €8.00
- Audio Guide: + €2.00
- Entrance is free on the last Wednesday of each month and with the Antwerp City Card.
- Additional fees may apply for special exhibits. Check the Rubens House website for updates.
- See website for the latest ticket information
Purchase your tickets at the contemporary pavilion in the plaza out front. Enjoy your journey through the life and works of one of history’s great artists at the Rubens House in Antwerp.
