Kielpark

Kielpark is one of the few sizeable green spaces in the Kiel district of southern Antwerp, situated between the city's Ring road and Jan De Voslei avenue. Covering roughly 17 hectares, it serves as the main recreational area for residents of this densely built-up part of the city.

Where does the park's history begin?

The site now occupied by the park was once the Antwerp city cemetery. The cemetery was established in 1786, following a decree by Emperor Joseph II of Habsburg-Lorraine, which banned burials within church grounds inside city walls and required cemeteries to be built outside the historic center. The Kiel cemetery remained in use for a century and a half before it was closed on June 1, 1936. The land then stayed undeveloped until the city decided to turn it into public space, opening it as a park on June 14, 1952.

How did the Kiel district grow around the park?

After the Second World War, Antwerp faced a severe housing shortage. To address it, the city made land available to social housing companies. Between 1952 and 1967, twenty residential blocks were built along the eastern edge of Kielpark and Jan De Voslei, adding a total of about 1,200 new apartments. The development was carried out by the housing company De Goede Woning and designed by architect Jos Smolderen. This housing still defines the character of the neighborhood surrounding the park today.

What changes has the park undergone recently?

Over time, the park needed updated infrastructure and a redesigned layout. In October 2005, the city of Antwerp approved a masterplan for the redevelopment of Kielpark, covering the renewal of paths, green areas, and recreational zones. The works took several years to complete, finishing in 2009. Among other improvements, the redesign gave the park its dedicated running routes.

What can visitors do in Kielpark today?

Today, Kielpark functions as a multi-purpose sports and recreation space. It includes sports facilities and a children's playground, along with two attractive, marked running routes used by residents of the surrounding neighborhoods. Since the Kiel district has little other public greenery, the park plays an important role as a place for daily walks, exercise, and community gatherings.

Where exactly is Kielpark located?

The park lies in the Kiel district, south of the Antwerp-Centrum junction and the Ring around Antwerp, west of the A112 road. Its approximate coordinates are 51.1926 N, 4.3836 E.

Frequently asked questions

Was Kielpark once a cemetery? Yes, the park occupies the former Antwerp city cemetery, opened in 1786 and closed in 1936.

When did Kielpark open as a public park? It opened to the public on June 14, 1952.

What facilities does Kielpark have? Sports facilities, a playground, and two marked running routes.

Has the park been renovated? Yes, following a masterplan approved in 2005, redevelopment works were completed in 2009.