Antwerp

[John Holland]

The Giant Hand of Antwerp - Silvius Brabo (mythical Roman soldier) killed a giant, called Druon Antigoon, who asked money from people who wanted to pass the bridge over the river Scheldt. When they didn't want to or couldn't pay, he cut off their hand and threw it in the river. This legend is the origin of the name Antwerp: Antwerpen, from Dutch hand werpen—akin to Old English hand and wearpan (= to throw), that has changed to today's warp.

MAS – Museum Aan de Stroom. The white specs in the center of each of the facing stones is actually a hand

 

[Milan Vjestica]

Two good shots. I like the back story too.

 

[John Marriott]

Very good indeed. Nice narrative too.

 

[Pete Askew]

Very interesting and some fine shots too. Great texture on the hand.

 

[Ivar Dahl-Larsen]

I remember my wife leaned against that hand, not knowing the story then. Very good images John. Nice to see a part of Antwerpen again.

 

[John Holland]

Thank you for the comments, everyone. I did not know the story of the hand when I shot the image - at the time of the shot, I thought it strange to have this large hand in the middle of the walkway. The MAS is something that my wife and I just came across as we explored Antwerp. We were also surprised that there was an observation deck on the roof and no charge to access it.