Built between 527 and 565 AD at the foot of Mount Sinai for Emperor Justinian, this monastery later took its name from St Catherine of Alexandria, whose remains are said to rest here. It’s more fortress than church, with thick stone walls guarding the Church of the Transfiguration, the chapel of the Burning Bush, and a monks-only library packed with ancient manuscripts. Inside, you’ll find mosaics, religious ornaments, and some of the oldest illuminated manuscripts in the world on display. Outside, don’t miss Moses’ Well and the garden with centuries of history. The place is open most mornings but closed on Fridays, Sundays, and Orthodox feast days. Still active today, the monastery holds importance across Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, and continues its Greek Orthodox traditions uninterrupted.

Piazza della Rinascita is the centre of public life in Pescara, and as such is bursting with life both in its public space and in its elegant cafés. It serves as an excellent spot for people-watching while you bask in the warm afternoon sun. In addition, the square occasionally transforms into a lively hub, hosting outdoor concerts and festivals.

If you are a fan of architectural design, you simply must visit the Rietveld Schröderhuis. This outstanding single-family house embodies the design principles of the De Stijl movement, and the restoration of its interiors to the 1920s aligns with this significance. Today, the entire house is a museum that has been meticulously restored and maintained to retain its authenticity.

Embark for a fascinating boat trip on the Dyle, Mechelen's lifeblood! You will learn all about the sights you pass on the riverbanks and you will be fed interesting snippets of information and anecdotes about Mechelen's history as you go.