The Museum of Art and History in Brussels: a journey through time

Updated March 5, 2023 by pierre

Welcome to the wonderful world of art and history! Today we will visit the Brussels Museum of Art and History. If you don't know it, it'san incredible place full of artistic and historical treasures. But before we dive into the history, let me introduce you to some practical information about this museum. He is considered theone of the largest museums in Belgium and is renowned for its collections of art and historical artifacts.

Find out more about the official ticket office of the Museum of Art and History

Two names for one museum

If the name of this museum "Museum of Art and History" means nothing to you, maybe the name " Royal Museums of Art and History » speak to you a little more? If not, it is impossible for you to have missed this museum. It is located in the very center of Cinquantenaire park. Its arcade alone is worth the detour. Inside the museum houses more than 30.000 objects, ranging from antiquity to the present day, with permanent and temporary exhibitions that highlight history, art and culture.

Do you know the largest object in the museum's collection? This is an Egyptian statue 5 meters high! And yes, the ancient Egyptians had a sense of excess!

The history of the Museum of Art and History of Brussels

It was in 1835 that the Museum of Art and History of Brussels was born. Its name: “Royal Museum of Art and History”. At the time, the museum was located in the Palace of Charles of Lorraine one of the most beautiful buildings of the capital located place of the museum. Several times, the museum changed address to settle definitively in 1889 in the Cinquantenaire park.

What do you find in the museum?

Now that the presentations are made, let's get down to business: the visit of the museum! Here are a few reasons why the Brussels Museum of Art and History is a must-visit place. The museum houses exceptional collections of art and historical objects from all over the world. Here you can discover objects dating from antiquity to the XNUMXth century, such as sculptures, paintings, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, weapons, musical instruments and much more.

• The Egyptian collection:

If you're a fan of pharaohs, mummies and hieroglyphs, then you'll love the museum's Egyptian collection. It is one of the most impressive in Europe, with exceptional pieces such as the funerary stele of Bès or the statue of the god Amenophis III.

• The decorative arts rooms:

Decorative arts appeal to you? So know that you will be delighted by visiting this museum. Do not miss the rooms devoted to the arts of glass, ceramics and furniture. The pieces on display are magnificent, with styles ranging from neoclassicism to Art Nouveau to flamboyant Gothic.

• The Asian art rooms:

Asian art lovers will be delighted to discover the rooms dedicated to China, Japan, India and Indonesia. Pieces of exceptional beauty are on display, such as Chinese Buddhist statuettes and Japanese kimonos.

• Musical instruments :

ll museum also has a collection of musical instruments that is worth seeing. From pianos to organs and guitars, you can discover instruments from all eras and all styles. (If musical instruments appeal to you, don't miss the MiM)

• Temporary exhibitions:

In addition to its permanent collection, the Brussels Museum of Art and History also offers temporary exhibitions that are worth seeing. Various themes are offered, ranging from modern art to ancient civilizations. Temporary exhibitions The Museum of Art and History regularly offers temporary exhibitions on various themes. You can discover exhibitions on the history of fashion, on ancient civilizations, on contemporary art and much more. Check their website for current exhibitions.

Reviews of the Museum of Art and History of Brussels

Visitors' opinions are unanimous: the Museum of Art and History is a museum not to be missed during your stay in Brussels. Here's what they say:

• « An incredibly rich and varied museum – TripAdvisor
• « A must-see museum for art and history lovers – The Smart Boy
• « A museum well worth a visit –Google Reviews
• « An impressive collection of works of art and history –Yelp
• « The museum offers exciting temporary exhibitions – Visit Brussels
• “The Museum of Art and History in Brussels is an impressive museum, which houses remarkable collections from all eras and all continents. – Lonely Planet

Pratical information

👤 If you are looking for an activity to do with children in Brussels, know that the museum also offers activities for children. Your visit will therefore be more fun and interactive. On the program, creative workshops, guided tours for children and treasure hunts are organized throughout the year.

(I.e. Opening time: the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 17 p.m.

🎫 Entry prices are:

• 8€ for adults,
• 6€ for seniors and students
• free for children under 18.

Find out more about the official ticket office of the Museum of Art and History

Conclusion

If you are looking for a museum that will take you on a journey through time, then the Museum of Art and History in Brussels is for you! With more than 10 objects on display, you can discover collections of art and historical objects from all over the world. Now that you have an idea of ​​the marvels that you can discover at the Brussels Museum of Art and History, all you have to do is get there! Be sure to check opening hours and prices on their website before you go.