Museum aan de Stroom (Museum by the Stream), Antwerp (must see)

The Museum aan de Stroom (Museum by the Stream), abbreviated as MAS, is prominently situated along the river Scheldt in Antwerp's Eilandje district. Officially opened to the public on May 17, 2011, the MAS is Antwerp's largest museum and stands as a significant cultural landmark. The decision to construct the museum was made by the Antwerp city council in 1998, and construction began with the laying of the first brick on September 14, 2006.

Designed by Neutelings Riedijk Architects, the museum's architecture is a striking example of the postmodern Art Deco style, characterized by its 60-meter-high structure made of Indian red sandstone and curved glass panels. This design not only provides a visual landmark but also serves as a symbolic gateway connecting Antwerp to global cultures.

The MAS is built on the historical site of the Hanzehuis, where international merchants once resided and worked before it was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century. Today, the museum boasts a collection of 470,000 objects, although the majority are held in storage. A highlight of the museum is the "visible store," the first visitors' gallery, which displays about 180,000 items, allowing public access to a vast array of the collection.

The core mission of the MAS is to explore and celebrate Antwerp's extensive maritime heritage and its rich connections with global trade and culture. The museum's collections include maritime artifacts that illustrate the city’s pivotal role in international trade, as well as diverse artworks and cultural items from Europe, Africa, America, Asia, and Oceania.

The MAS is also known for its dynamic thematic exhibitions that bridge local and global histories, cultures, and artistic expressions. It emphasizes educational outreach and audience engagement through innovative uses of new media and immersive presentations. Notably, the museum has received international acclaim for its "MAS IN YOUNG HANDS" initiative, which empowers young people from diverse backgrounds to participate as event organizers and curators, further enriching the museum's community involvement and educational impact.