Always wanting to continue research into drains and sewers one of our members, Hepworth Clay took a tour underground to inspect the sewers of Antwerp from the inside. The sewers, otherwise known as De Ruien, are a shadow of the rich history above ground. Sewers, streams and fortifications have crisscrossed Antwerp ever since the Middle Ages. This network of both natural and man-made waterways provided the city with water and an internal harbour.

When the sewers were turned into covered drains this unique piece of heritage disappeared both from view and from our memories.