Steytelinckpark

Steytelinckpark lies in Wilrijk, Antwerp, about five kilometres south of the city centre. This flat green space sits among residential buildings, around twenty-three metres above sea level. A pond anchors the park, with paths circling its banks and a bridge crossing the water. Ducks, geese and seagulls often gather there.

Behind Saint Bavo’s Church, an entrance leads into quiet lawns, walking paths and woodland edges. Visitors come to walk, jog, relax, let children play and exercise dogs. A passage connects the park to a small cemetery containing civilian graves and Second World War burials. Several gravestones show photographs of young men, including some who were eighteen.

An old castle stands within the grounds, although the building remains closed to the public. The pond and castle provide distinctive settings for photographs, while Brasserie Den Uil, Pizzeria Sole and De Lindekes sit nearby. A playground serves younger visitors, and plans included separate zones, accessible paths, benches and equipment, with an adventure area featuring a climbing tower, high slide and rope course.