Het Steen is the oldest preserved building in Antwerp. Its location has been essential to the development of the city. As early as the 9th century, the first settlement with earthen ramparts was established here. A castle, a stone wall and a gatehouse were built at the entrance, which later became Het Steen. Over the centuries, the function of the impressive building changed frequently: from gatehouse to prison, from sawmill to museum. After its latest renovation in 2021, the medieval fortress of Het Steen houses a tourist centre for the city of Antwerp.

In front of Het Steen stands the Lange Wapper: a statue of a legendary giant from Antwerp folklore, who comes to life at night and chases drunks wandering through the city (PiP 3).