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Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp and Ghent : Overview & Top 10

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Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp and Ghent

The four great cities of northern Belgium share a rich cultural heritage dating back to medieval times, when this was one of the most vibrant trading regions in the world. Yet each is very different: Brussels is the new Capital of Europe, while Bruges is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities. Ghent is a historic university city, while Antwerp still has the muscular stance of a great industrial centre. Each, in its own way, is richly rewarding – not only in cultural sights, but also in delightful and welcoming places to stay, eat and drink.

For a list of the best art galleries and museums (see Art Galleries and Museums)
  • Constantin Meunier (1831–1905) was one of the great sculptors of the late 19th century, famed for his instantly recognizable bronzes of working people – especially puddleurs (forge workers). The museum occupies his former home, and contains excellent examples of his work.

  • The suburban home of the late-19th-century sculptor Constantin Meunier has been turned into a gallery devoted to his work; it leaves the visitor in no doubt of his gifts and the pungency of his social criticism (see Musée Constantin Meunier).

  • This beautifully preserved Art Deco home has excellent furniture and stained glass, as well as contemporary paintings.

  • A private collection of art is presented in its original setting: a charming Art Deco home with a beautiful garden (see Musée David et Alice van Buuren).

  • A rare opportunity to see inside one of Brussels’ maisons de maître (mansions). As well as a fine collection of antique furniture, the Hôtel Charlier contains many reminders of its days as a meeting place for the avant-garde set in the early 20th century (see Musée Charlier).

  • Good for the budding scientist, ecologist and dinosaur fanatic (see Muséum des Sciences Naturelles).

  • Brussels’ sewer museum gives an insight into the massive public works that made the city safe to live in during the late 19th century. Visits to a small portion of the vast network by guided tour only.

  • Underground sewer visits – perennially appealing (see Musée des Égouts, Brussels).

  • Popular museum for children aged 4–12. Limited numbers.

  • The famous “MIM” collection of historical musical instruments has recently been rehoused in the remarkable Art Nouveau department store known as “Old England”. Take the children too: easy-to-use infrared headphones bring the exhibits to life by showing visitors what the instruments sound like when played (see Musée des Instruments de Musique).

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