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Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History: A Journey Through Military History

Explore 12 centuries of military history at Brussels' Royal Museum of the Armed Forces, from medieval armor to modern aircraft in Cinquantenaire Park.

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The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, located in Brussels' Cinquantenaire Park, showcases 12 centuries of military history. From medieval armor to modern fighter jets, the museum offers a comprehensive look at Belgium's military past and its role in major global conflicts.

A brief summary to Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Wednesday of the month after 13:00 for free admission.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the extensive collections.
  • Photography is allowed in most areas, but restrictions may apply during special exhibitions.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and events.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History is easily accessible by public transport. Take metro line 1 or 5 to either the Merode or Schuman station. From either station, it's approximately an 8-minute walk to the museum entrance, located next to the Cinquantenaire Arch. A single metro ticket costs €2.30.

  • Walking

    From the center of Cinquantenaire Park, walk towards the Cinquantenaire Arch. The museum entrance is located on the left side of the arch. Follow the signs within the park to navigate to the museum. The walk from the center of the park to the museum is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the Parc du Cinquantenaire. From there, it's a short walk to the museum entrance. A taxi ride from Brussels Central Station to the museum typically costs between €19-€24 and takes about 10 minutes.

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Discover more about Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, also known as the Royal Military Museum, is housed in the historic Cinquantenaire Park in Brussels. The museum's vast collection spans from the Middle Ages to the present day, providing a detailed overview of military technology, strategy, and the human experience of warfare. The museum is divided into several sections, each focusing on a different period or aspect of military history. Highlights include the aviation hall, featuring over 100 aircraft, and exhibits dedicated to World War I and World War II. Visitors can explore displays of weapons, uniforms, armored vehicles, and other military equipment, offering insights into the evolution of warfare over the centuries. The museum also features a new Antarctica room. The Cinquantenaire Park itself has historical significance, initially serving as a parade ground before being transformed into an exhibition space in 1880 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence. The museum was inaugurated in 1923 and has since become one of the world's largest military museums. The museum is housed in two of the halls of the Cinquantenaire, which were built in 1880. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Brussels from the arcades in Cinquantenaire Park. The museum offers guided tours in English, French, and Dutch, providing additional context and stories behind the exhibits.

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