Hombeek
The village of Hombeek lies on the River Zenne to the west of Mechelen. As you travel along the quiet roads past the countless fields, it will soon become apparent that this is true agricultural country. And with a spot of luck, you’ll be able to pay a visit to the famous Hombeek allotments.
Hombeek is the perfect place for a pit stop at a local bar or restaurant, all of which are located within a few roads of each other. From here you make your way through the beautiful village centre with its recently remodelled square, and along dirt tracks to Expoel, a stately home which may owe its name to an evil spirit or witch that lived in a pool there.
DON’T MISS – HOMBEEK
1. Eglegem lake
Eglegem lake, or “Hombeek pit” as it is called here, was created when the E19 motorway was constructed. It is now a 43-hectar wildlife area and an important stopover site for birds, as well as home to a family of beavers. In the summer, fishermen line its banks and sailors and windsurfers take to the water.
2. Banks of the Zenne
The Zenne dyke in Hombeek is a wonderful place for a walk. Like the Nete, Rupel and Dyle, the Zenne is a freshwater river, subject to the twice-daily ebb and flow of the tide. This process has created extremely rare freshwater mud flats and salt marshes, sheltered, silt-rich habitats. At low tide ducks and waders look for food on the mudflats, where there is no vegetation but which are ecologically important zones favoured by tardigrades known colloquially as water bears. Bluethroats, reed buntings and reed warblers inhabit the reed beds in the salt marsh; warblers and song thrushes the tidal willow woodland.
3. Expoel Castle
Dating from the thirteenth century, the magnificent Expoel Castle may well owe its name to Jan de Axpole, husband of the first known owner, Catharina Raduwaerts. Others claim that it derives its name from an evil spirit or witch that inhabited the pool here. In 1700 the residence became the summer retreat of Balthazar IV Moretus, heir to the printing and publishing house Plantijn in Antwerp and lord almoner of Antwerp. After his death, the castle was sold to the de Meester de Ravestein family.
4. St. Martin’s Church
St. Martin’s Church has been the beating heart of Hombeek for centuries. The oldest traces of a church on this site date back to 1129. A seal of the pastor of Hombeek from 1307 showing Saint Martin on horseback proves that the building was already dedicated to this saint, better known in Mechelen as Sinte-Mette.
During the religious wars of the 16th century, the church was seriously damaged. In subsequent centuries, it was restored and extended, resulting in a unique mix of Romanesque, Baroque and Neo-Gothic elements.
Eye-catchers are the imposing tower with its bell-shaped spire, two baroque side altars and the beautifully preserved 18th-century organ. Recently, the church underwent a thorough restoration, including the roof and the colourful stained glass. What’s more, during those works there was a remarkable find: human remains from the 15th to 17th centuries.
Since April 2025, the church has shined forth in full glory again. Whether you love history, architecture or just want to enjoy a quiet place, the area around St. Martin’s Church is definitely worth a visit.
A great atmosphere around the church
The village square and adjacent park around the charming St. Martin’s Church are an invitation to enjoy the peace, greenery and relaxation. The car-free square is the ideal place for meetings, events, playing with the children or just to catch your breath.
Behind the village square you will discover an attractive park, made up of various garden zones and connected by hiking trails, flower meadows and an orchard. The Leibeek was recently opened up and forms a natural water buffer and resting place, with seating and playful boulders along the shore.
The landscaping – with perennials, ornamental grasses and fruit trees – oozes contemporary, rural charm. Whether you walk, cycle, play or relax, the village square and park in Hombeek are a great destination for young and old.
You will pass through this location on the hiking trails Rondje Mechelen - Hombeeks Plateau and Rondje Hombeek.
Practical info
St. Martin’s Church has no opening hours and is only accessible during prayer services.
Admission to the church is free.
