The Jain Temple is a new symbol of Indian culture in Antwerp. The temple is the largest of its kind in Europe and offers a glimpse of the rich traditions of Jain religion.

The temple stands tall in Wilrijk, founded mostly by Jain diamantaires living in Antwerp and India. It was built under the protection of the Jain Cultural Centre of Antwerp, an association of Jain community members. The temple showcases the rich traditions of the Jain religion and culture.

According to Jain community members, the temple was conceptualized almost 20 years ago. Land was acquired for the temple soon after that, but actual work on it began only in the late 1990’s. Over the years, thousands of craftsmen from India were brought to Antwerp to work on the massive temple project.

Our visit to the temple should not be missed.

PLEASE NOTE

All those visiting the temple have to follow certain rules.

1. Phones on silent.
2. No photos to be taken inside -You may take photos outside.
3. Please remove shoes. Socks may be worn or barefoot.
4. Do not touch statues.
7. Women having a period are not allowed to enter the temple.
8. No food or drinks are allowed in the temple.
9. Arms, shoulders and knees should be covered. Refrain from wearing silk, leather or very colourful garments.

Meet: 10.45 at the temple, Laarstraat 34, Wilrijk.

Getting there:
From Groenplaats – take bus 180, 181, 182 or 183 to Heistraat then a short walk.
From Antwerp Central – bus 182 goes via Groenplaats.
For those going by car, there is enough parking inside the grounds of the temple.

Cost: €8 for the guide (non-members €12), plus €5 for entrance to the temple.

To Register: Contact Diana Coetzee and pay your guide fee into the ABIW account, marking your transfer “Jain Temple”.