During our recent trip to Brussels, we decided to visit the Comic Strip Museum, also known as the Belgian Comic Strip Center. As a family of comic enthusiasts, we were eager to explore the museum dedicated to the rich history of Belgian comics, home to iconic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. However, our experience left us with mixed feelings.
A Passionate Nod to Comic History
For those who are deeply passionate about the history and artistry of Belgian comics, the Comic Strip Museum offers a detailed look into the evolution of this unique art form. The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta, which in itself is worth admiring. The exhibits cover various aspects of comic strip creation, from the early days to modern developments, showcasing original artwork and providing insights into the creative process of famous Belgian illustrators.
Limited Content for Casual Visitors
Despite the museum’s rich historical content, we felt that it might not be worth the ticket price for casual visitors or those with a general interest in comics. The entrance fee is €12 for adults and €7 for children, which seemed a bit steep given the limited number of characters and exhibits on display. Our daughter enjoyed seeing some familiar characters, but overall, there wasn’t as much interactive or engaging content as we had hoped.
Additionally, parts of the museum were under renovation during our visit, which might explain the sparse exhibits and limited displays. While this could mean improvements in the future, it didn’t enhance our experience at the time.
Exploring the Lobby and Gift Shop
For those who might not want to pay the full admission fee, we recommend visiting the museum’s lobby area and gift shop instead. The lobby itself features a few interesting displays and gives a taste of the museum’s charm without the cost. The gift shop offers a range of comic-related merchandise, including books, posters, and souvenirs. However, we noted that the selection of English-language materials was quite limited, so it may not be the best place for non-French or non-Dutch speakers to find comprehensive reading material.
A Visit to the Tintin Shop
We also recommend visiting the Tintin Shop, which is more centrally located and offers a more engaging experience for Tintin fans. The shop is filled with a wide variety of Tintin merchandise, from books and figurines to posters and collectibles. It’s a great spot to find unique souvenirs and delve deeper into the world of one of Belgium’s most beloved comic characters.
Skipping the Hergé Museum
Although we considered visiting the Hergé Museum, we decided against it due to its distance from central Brussels. The Hergé Museum, located in Louvain-la-Neuve, is dedicated to the life and work of Georges Remi, the creator of Tintin. While it promises a comprehensive exploration of Hergé’s contributions to the comic world, it requires a longer trip, which might not be ideal for families with limited time in the city.
Discovering Comic Book Murals in Brussels
Walking around Brussels, we were delighted to discover the city’s vibrant comic book murals. These large, colorful artworks adorn the sides of buildings, turning ordinary streets into an open-air gallery. Each mural celebrates beloved Belgian comic characters, from Tintin and the Smurfs to Lucky Luke and Spirou. Strolling through neighborhoods like the city center and the Marolles, we felt like we were on a treasure hunt, eagerly spotting new murals around every corner. This unique blend of art and urban landscape not only showcases Belgium’s rich comic heritage but also adds a playful and artistic flair to our exploration of the city. It’s a perfect activity for families, combining a love of comics with the joy of wandering through Brussels’ charming streets.
Final Thoughts
While the Comic Strip Museum holds a special appeal for avid fans of Belgian comics, we found that it may not offer enough to justify the ticket price for more casual visitors. The limited exhibits and ongoing renovations contributed to our mixed experience. However, the beautiful architecture and the opportunity to visit the lobby and gift shop without an admission fee provide a way to enjoy a glimpse of the museum without committing to the full cost.
If you’re a passionate comic book aficionado or have a deep interest in the history of Belgian comics, the Comic Strip Museum might be worth a visit. For others, a quick stop in the lobby and gift shop might suffice, allowing you to appreciate a piece of Brussels’ comic heritage without the expense. And don’t miss the Tintin Shop for a delightful and centrally located alternative, perfect for finding unique Tintin-themed treasures.