If diamonds are your best friend, then go to Antwerp, Belgium where 70% of the world’s gems are traded. Folklore suggests the city’s name is from the words “Hand Werpen” because of the giant Antigon. He cut off a hand from anyone who did not pay a fee for crossing the bridge. This lion statue is from that bridge over the river Scheldt resembles the country’s coat of arms. In the background is the Cathedral of Our Lady’s 400 foot spire. Also called Onze-Lieve Vrouwekathedraal, this exquisite, Gothic style Catholic church was opened in 1521 after nearly 170 years of construction.
