St Peter's Tower Peperbusse
The 'Peperbusse,' or 'Pepper Mill,' is Ostend's iconic tower, the sole survivor of a historic church fire.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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St Peter's Tower Peperbusse
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The 'Peperbusse,' or 'Pepper Mill,' is Ostend's iconic tower, the sole survivor of a historic church fire.
"An interesting ruin, just next to the church. Free to view from the outside. "
Free to view from outside
You can admire the historic tower and its surroundings without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Discover the 'Pepper Mill'
Its nickname comes from its shape, a reminder of the old church that burned down. :housewithgarden:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Peperbusse Tower
Ostend, Belgium
The sole surviving remnant of the old St. Peter's Church, its unique shape earned it the 'Pepper Mill' nickname.
St. Peter and St. Paul Church
Adjacent to the tower
The modern church that replaced the original, offering a beautiful architectural contrast to the historic tower.
Purgatory Niche
Base of the tower
A unique, albeit somber, feature at the tower's base, representing souls with hope for the afterlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the 'Pepper Mill' Nickname
Explore the Surrounding Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to view from outside
You can admire the historic tower and its surroundings without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Discover the 'Pepper Mill'
Its nickname comes from its shape, a reminder of the old church that burned down. :housewithgarden:
Explore the new church
The modern St. Peter and St. Paul Church is right next door and worth a look. :church:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to view from outside
You can admire the historic tower and its surroundings without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Discover the 'Pepper Mill'
Its nickname comes from its shape, a reminder of the old church that burned down. :housewithgarden:
Explore the new church
The modern St. Peter and St. Paul Church is right next door and worth a look. :church:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find St. Peter's Tower Peperbusse to be an interesting historical ruin, appreciated for its unique 'Pepper Mill' nickname and free external viewing. While it's a remnant of a larger church, its survival is noted, and the adjacent modern church and nearby amenities like restaurants add to the experience. Some reviews mention encountering festivals, enhancing the atmosphere.
"Interesting ruin, just next to the church. Free to view from the outside."
Elizabeth Baker
"There was a festival when we there, but it is a magnificent place."
Frederika Husovská
"Beautiful cathedral"
CAR WASH HARRY & JERRY
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Peter's Tower, or 'Peperbusse,' is located in Ostend, Belgium. It's easily accessible within the city center. Public transport options like buses are available, and it's often a pleasant walk from other city attractions. +1
Yes, the tower is a prominent landmark in Ostend and is generally easy to locate within the city. Its unique shape makes it quite recognizable.
Driving to the tower is possible, but parking in city centers can be challenging. It's advisable to check for nearby parking garages or consider public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the tower is free to view from the outside. You can admire its architecture and historical significance without purchasing a ticket.
As it's an external landmark, there are no specific opening hours. You can view it at any time.
There is no entrance fee to see St. Peter's Tower from the outside. It's a freely accessible historical site.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during daylight hours when the light is good for capturing the tower's details. Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can also offer beautiful lighting. 
Yes, the tower itself is a great subject. You can also capture it with the modern St. Peter and St. Paul Church in the background for a contrast of old and new.
Drone regulations vary by location. It's essential to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Ostend.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
The tower is the last remaining part of the old St. Peter's Church, which was destroyed by fire in 1896. It has a long history, with its foundation stone laid in 1478.
The tower's nickname, 'Peperbusse,' comes from its distinctive shape, which resembles an old-fashioned pepper mill.
At the base of the tower, there's a niche referred to as 'purgatory,' symbolizing souls with hope for the afterlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider shooting during the golden hours for dramatic lighting, or juxtapose the old tower with the modern church for a compelling composition. The surrounding streets of Ostend also offer many charming scenes and coastal views. 🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of the 'Pepper Mill'
The history of the tower dates back to July 20, 1478, when Pastor Jan Lammaert laid the foundation stone for the old St. Peter's Church. Over the years, it weathered many storms and disasters that befell Ostend.
Beyond the Tower: Exploring the Surroundings
For those interested in the more esoteric aspects of history, the tower is noted to have a 'purgatory' feature at its base. This is described as a hollow at the base where souls burn for those who still have hope in the afterlife, adding a layer of local folklore and belief to the site.
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