Belgian Comic Strip Center: A Celebration of the Ninth Art

The Belgian Comic Strip Center, located in the heart of Brussels, is a must-visit for comic book enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The museum is dedicated to the history and art of comics, showcasing the work of famous Belgian comic artists. Housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta in 1906, originally a Waucquez fabric warehouse, the museum itself is a work of art. The building was threatened with demolition but was saved by Horta's student. The museum opened its doors on October 6, 1989, and has since become one of Brussels' main attractions, drawing over 200,000 visitors annually. The museum's collection includes original comic strips, manuscripts, and artwork that highlight the cultural significance of comics in Belgium. The exhibit starts with Hergé and ends with Peyo, covering the pioneers of Belgian comics between 1929 and 1958, with a special focus on the magazines Spirou and Tintin. Each artist has a room dedicated to his work and designed in a playful way. The final floor is dedicated to the merchandising of comics and available for provisional exhibitions. Visitors can explore the permanent exhibitions, which showcase the history of Belgian comics, as well as temporary exhibitions dedicated to various comic strip artists. The museum also organizes sketching sessions, making it a great activity for kids.