St. Anna Tunnel, Antwerp

The Saint Anna Tunnel in Antwerp is an impressive engineering achievement and a unique historical site. Situated under the Scheldt River, which bisects the city, this tunnel provides a pedestrian and bicycle passage connecting the old town with newer areas across the river.

Constructed in 1931, the tunnel was built as an alternative to a bridge which would have disrupted the heavy ship traffic crucial to Antwerp's port activities. Spanning 572 meters in length and situated 31.57 meters below the river’s surface, the tunnel features a remarkable installation of wooden escalators. These escalators, dating back to the 1930s, are not only a rarity but are also beautifully preserved, contrasting starkly with the modern escalators found in most contemporary settings.

Visitors descending into the tunnel are greeted by the warm glow of its original wooden escalators, leading deep beneath the river. The journey through the tunnel is lined with ceramic tiles, offering a somewhat monotonous backdrop that is periodically interrupted by historical photographs and informational displays about the tunnel's construction and its role in the city's development.

Despite suffering significant damage during World War II, the Saint Anna Tunnel has been carefully restored and continues to serve as a vital conduit for daily commuters. Its historical significance and the continued use of its original features, like the wooden escalators and staircase, make it a special destination for those interested in both the past and present of urban infrastructure.