Discover Benelux | Belgium | Museums of the Month
Photo: © BELvue/Frank Toussaint
Photo: © BELvue/Philippe de Formanoir
Photo: © BELvue/Frank Toussaint
MUSEUMS OF THE MONTH, BELGIUM
Discover Belgium at the BELvue TEXT: ANNA VILLELEGER | PHOTOS: BELVUE
Located in the heart of Brussels and housed in a former 18th century luxury hotel, the BELvue museum is a must for those who want to know more about Belgium and its history. “It’s the perfect starting point if you want to understand the country via a fun and interactive multimedia experience,” begins museum communication manager Mathilde Oechsner. Last year the family-friendly museum unveiled its brand new permanent exhibition, which tells Belgium’s story through seven different themes with one theme per room. These themes include democracy, prosperity, solidarity, pluralism, migration, language and Europe. The aim of this very modern permanent exhibition is to delve into the country and its history using contemporary issues as a starting point. “How does Belgium work? How is it organised? These are big questions and at first it seems so complicated. After a visit to the museum, people really find they have found the answers, as well as dis74 | Issue 43 | July 2017
covering a great deal about Belgian culture,” says Oechsner. In the corridors, visitors explore over 200 ‘Belgian’ objects including everyday items, great inventions and pieces from the art and design world. Expect everything from a lithograph by Magritte to a football signed by the national football team. Naturally, the BELvue attracts many tourists and expats seeking to gain a fuller understanding of modern-day Belgium. It is also popular with families and young people, with entrance being free for under 18s and self-guided tours available dependent on age. Children as young as three will enjoy helping the characters Mimi and Momo find hidden objects around the museum. Those aged six to eight can partake in ‘I’m the minister!’, where they are given a fancy dress costume and a list of ministerial duties to complete during their visit, while nine to 12-year-olds can accompany Zeno the explorer on his trip through Belgium. “It is
the ideal opportunity for all ages to learn and have fun,” enthuses Oechsner. The BELvue is also renowned for its temporary exhibitions. Look out for an expo devoted to editorial cartoonists in Belgium coming this December. Photo: © BELvue/Frank Toussaint
The magnificent BELvue museum can be hired for private events in the evening. Meanwhile, its three meeting rooms with views of the Place Royale, Rue Royale or Brussels Park are ideal for seminars and meetings during the daytime.
For more information, please visit: www.belvue.be