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Broussaille: A Comic Strip Come to Life

Discover the whimsical world of Broussaille, the first mural on Brussels' Comic Book Route, celebrating Belgium's rich comic heritage and transforming the city into an open-air art gallery.

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The Broussaille mural, a vibrant piece of street art in Brussels, marks the beginning of the city's celebrated Comic Book Route. Created by Frank Pé in 1991, the mural depicts Jonas Valentin, also known as Broussaille, a young, adventurous student who encounters fantastical elements in his daily life. Located on Rue du Marché au Charbon, this colorful artwork not only beautifies the urban landscape but also pays homage to Belgium's rich comic book heritage. As the first mural in the series, it set the stage for over 50 other comic strip murals that now adorn buildings throughout Brussels, making it a unique and accessible art experience for locals and tourists alike. The mural is a great starting point for exploring the city center and discovering other hidden gems of Brussels' street art scene. Its whimsical depiction of Broussaille invites viewers to embrace the unexpected and find magic in the everyday, embodying the spirit of adventure and discovery that defines the city itself.

A brief summary to Broussaille - Mur BD - Street Art

  • Rue du Marché au Charbon 41, Brussels, Brussel, 1000, BE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the Comic Book Route involves a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Download a map of the Comic Book Route to easily locate all the murals and plan your route.
  • Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center to learn more about the history and significance of comics in Belgium.
  • Combine your visit to the Broussaille mural with a stroll through the nearby Grand Place and Manneken Pis.
  • Consider joining a guided tour of the Comic Book Route for insights and stories behind the murals.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Grand Place, walk northeast along Rue Charles Buls, then turn left onto Rue de l'Étuve. Continue onto Rue du Chêne, then turn right onto Rue du Marché au Charbon. The Broussaille mural will be on your left, at the intersection with Rue des Teinturiers. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye out for the many chocolate shops and waffle stands along the way!

  • Public Transport

    From Brussels Central Station, take metro lines 1 or 5 to Sainte-Catherine station. From there, walk south along Rue Sainte-Catherine, then turn right onto Rue du Marché au Charbon. The Broussaille mural will be on your right, at the intersection with Rue des Teinturiers. A single metro ticket costs €2.10 if purchased beforehand or €2.50 onboard. Alternatively, from De Brouckère metro station (lines 1, 3, 4, 5), walk along Rue Neuve, turn right onto Rue des Halles, then left onto Rue du Marché au Charbon. The mural will be on your right.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Brussels Central Station to Rue du Marché au Charbon 41 will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the time of day. The journey usually takes around 5-10 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Broussaille - Mur BD - Street Art

Broussaille, a captivating mural located on Rue du Marché au Charbon in Brussels, stands as the inaugural piece of the city's renowned Comic Book Route. Created in 1991 by the talented Belgian comic artist Frank Pé, this vibrant artwork brings to life the character of Jonas Valentin, affectionately known as Broussaille. Broussaille is a young student from Brussels who embarks on extraordinary adventures, encountering mythical creatures, strange phenomena, and endearing characters in his everyday life and travels. The mural, spanning approximately 35 square meters, is a colorful and whimsical depiction of Broussaille, capturing the essence of his adventurous spirit and the fantastical elements that permeate his world. Frank Pé's artistry is evident in the intricate details and expressive portrayal of the character, making it a beloved landmark for both comic enthusiasts and art lovers. The creation of the Broussaille mural marked the beginning of an ambitious project by the city of Brussels to celebrate its rich comic book heritage and revitalize the urban landscape. Following the removal of façade advertising in the city center, the walls beneath were in dire need of renovation. The Comic Book Route emerged as a creative solution, transforming these empty walls into canvases that pay tribute to the iconic characters and artists of Belgian comics. Since its inception, the Comic Book Route has expanded to include over 50 murals, scattered throughout the city center and the neighborhoods of Laeken and Auderghem. These murals depict scenes from popular Belgian comics such as The Adventures of Tintin, The Smurfs, Lucky Luke, Gaston, and Marsupilami, creating an open-air museum that celebrates the country's unique cultural identity. The Broussaille mural holds a special place in the hearts of Brussels residents, as it represents the beginning of this artistic endeavor and the city's commitment to promoting its comic book heritage. The mural has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire the artwork and explore the Comic Book Route. Beyond its artistic value, the Broussaille mural also serves as a symbol of urban renewal and community engagement. The project has transformed neglected areas of the city into vibrant public spaces, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among residents. The murals have also become a source of inspiration for local artists and creatives, contributing to the city's thriving arts scene. The Comic Book Route has not only beautified the cityscape but has also provided a unique way for visitors to discover the capital and explore some of its less-crowded neighborhoods. Walking or biking along the route allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Belgian comics, while also experiencing the charm and character of Brussels' streets and alleyways. The Broussaille mural is located at the intersection of Rue du Marché au Charbon and Rue des Teinturiers, in the heart of Brussels' city center. The area is easily accessible by public transportation, with several metro and tram stops located nearby. Visitors can also reach the mural on foot, as it is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, including the Grand Place and Manneken Pis. As the first mural in the Comic Book Route, Broussaille has paved the way for other street art initiatives in Brussels, including the PARCOURS Street Art tour, which features over 150 frescoes created by Belgian and international artists. These projects have transformed Brussels into an open-air museum, where art is accessible to all and the city's streets become a canvas for creative expression. The Broussaille mural is more than just a piece of street art; it is a symbol of Brussels' cultural identity, its commitment to urban renewal, and its celebration of the art of comics. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city, offering a glimpse into the world of Belgian comics and the vibrant spirit of Brussels.

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