HotelO HotelO Kathedral is a hotel in Antwerp where contemporary design meets Rubens across the Cathedral of Our Lady, the city's landmark building. It brings antique vibes into the world of modern hospitality by having the walls and ceilings of the rooms decorated with paintings by the famous Flemish Baroque artist.
Why is the hotel decorated with works by Peter Paul Rubens? The cathedral that gave the hotel its name contains several of his masterworks: The Raising of the Cross, The Assumption of the Virgin Mary, The Descent from the Cross, and The Resurrection of Christ.
Jo Peeters, the architect and designer behind this project, is also the owner.
You wake up with a view of the Cathedral of Our Lady, while in Bar O, the staff prepares a delicious buffet breakfast so you can explore the bustling historic center built along the River Scheldt with a full belly.
Bar O is the place where you can sample some of the best Belgian beers and gins, which are a must-try if you are in Antwerp.
Belgium is also famous for its chocolates. In 2022, the hotel opened a tiny café with locally made sweets paired with freshly brewed coffee.
The hotel has 33 modern rooms with designer furniture, hardwood floors, and open bathrooms with large tubs.
The smaller, single, and double rooms are tucked in the back of the hotel and only have shower cabins. The larger ones, with sexy bathtubs and a view of the Groenplaats (Green Square), are located in the front.
The iconic Rubens paintings are stretched from the walls to the ceiling, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as if you were part of the art.
The bathtub stands in the middle of the room and is only eclipsed by a curtain. Once you open it, you can surprise your spouse or just look through the vintage windows onto Antwerp's unique buildings.
