Find out more about Belgium's well-known iconic comic heroes at this quirky museum.
Set in in a beautiful Art Nouveau building in the heart of Brussels, the Belgian Comic Strip Center (BCSC) attracts more than 200,000 visitors a year. This homage to comic strip art and the characters that many people grew up with first opened its doors to the public in 1989. It very quickly became one of the city's top attractions thanks to its well-organised permanent collection dedicated to promoting the art form. There is more than 4200 square metres of space dedicated to permanent and temporary exhibitions on everything relating to European comics, from its roots to the latest trends. At the centre of the majestic building, which was once a department store, you will find a magnificent winding marble staircase. The museum is also flooded with natural light thanks to the building’s high ceilings. On the ground floor, you can dine at the restaurant while admiring the design created by Belgian architect, Victor Horta. Next to the restaurant, there’s a gift shop where you can pick up some quirky souvenirs.
It's fitting that the museum is located Belgium, which, along with France, has long been at the forefront of the international comic scene thanks to the global popularity of characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. Here you will find rare and out-of-print strips, information on the stories behind the characters and highly valuable collectible figurines. There are life-size models of Tintin to pose alongside, as well as a cute collection of Smurfs.
While the museum concentrates on French, Dutch and Belgian comics – though there are translations into English - there are usually temporary exhibitions that cover the work of other parts of the world – check the website for details.
The Belgian Comic Strip Center is located in Brussels’ business district and can be reached by metro or car. The Center is open from 10 am to 6 pm and is closed on Mondays, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. There is a small admission charge.
