The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels: What to See in Belgium’s Main Military Museum

The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels is one of the largest museums dedicated to military history in Europe. The museum offers a unique collection of artefacts spanning several centuries, including rare pieces of military equipment, weapons and uniforms. It attracts both history buffs and tourists interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the military events that have shaped Belgium and the world. The museum features exhibit on world wars, colonial conflicts and aviation history, making it an important cultural and educational center.

History of creation

The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels was founded in 1910 on the initiative of military historian Louis Lecomte, inspired by the success of the military armament exhibition at the 1910 World Exhibition. Initially, the collection was quite modest, but over time it expanded through donations and acquisitions, including valuable artefacts related to the history of Belgium and its participation in world conflicts. Over more than a century of its existence, the museum has become one of the key military collections in Europe, documenting Belgium’s rich military past and its role in international events.

Key dates:

• 1910: World Exhibition in Brussels, where the first military exposition was presented.
• 1923: Official opening of the museum as part of the Royal War Museum.
• 1950s: The museum began to acquire collections related to both world wars, expanding the historical themes.
• 1980: Creation of exhibition halls dedicated to aviation and armored vehicles, which added new directions to the exposition.
• 2000s: The museum began digitizing its archives, making part of the collection available online.
• 2010: The museum’s centenary: special exhibitions and events were organized for visitors.
• 2020: Plans to modernize exhibits and improve the museum infrastructure for a comfortable visit.

Today, the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History remains an important part of Belgium’s cultural heritage, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The museum not only offers extensive permanent exhibitions, but also temporary exhibitions that shed light on little-known aspects of military history. In the future, the interactive areas will be expanded and the infrastructure will be improved to make visiting the museum even more educational and convenient for all categories of visitors. Innovative projects and international cooperation will ensure that the museum continues to develop and attract new generations interested in history.

Interesting fact:

The museum is one of the few in Europe to feature a comprehensive aviation collection, including aircraft from the First and Second World Wars.

The museum’s main exhibitions and collections

The main exhibitions of the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels cover different eras and events, illustrating Belgium’s rich military history. It features collections of weapons, uniforms, military equipment and memorabilia related to the military campaigns in which the country participated. Particularly impressive are the exhibition halls dedicated to both world wars, as well as the aviation exhibition, which includes aircraft and equipment from different historical periods.

Military equipment and weapons

The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels houses an impressive collection of military equipment and weapons that has been built up over many years. The core of the collection is made up of items from all over the world, representing the various historical periods and armed conflicts in which Belgium has participated. The museum aims to convey the spirit of the times by reconstructing battle scenes and displaying real artefacts, including tanks, aircraft, artillery and rare firearms.

The main items of the collection of military equipment and weapons:

• Tanks and armored vehicles. Extensive collection of armored vehicles, including historical tanks from the First and Second World Wars.
• Artillery guns. Field and anti-aircraft guns used in various conflicts, including rare examples.
• Military aircraft. Fighters and bombers from the world wars, some restored to flying condition.
• Pistols, rifles and machine guns from different eras, including unique examples with a rich history.
• Ancient armor and swords. Knightly armor and bladed weapons of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, demonstrating the evolution of defense and attack.

Visitors to the museum are advised to pay special attention to the halls with military equipment, where tanks, aircraft and artillery are presented, as well as an extensive collection of firearms and bladed weapons. The exhibits help to feel the atmosphere of military operations and better understand historical events. In addition, many exhibitions are accompanied by interactive materials and reconstructions, which allows you to delve into the history of weapons and war.

Interesting fact:

One of the aircraft in the museum is a restored World War II Spitfire fighter, which is still considered a symbol of the resilience of the Allied forces.

Naval history

The naval history collection of the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels has been built up over many years, and its formation is associated with the constant replenishment of unique artefacts that reflect the maritime power of Belgium. The core of the collection is made up of rare exhibits illustrating the evolution of the Belgian Navy from its early stages to modern maritime operations. Among the objects on display are examples of naval weapons, uniforms, navigation equipment, and ship models, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the country’s naval history.

The main items of the naval history collection are:

• Historical Ship Models. Detailed replicas of Belgian warships, reflecting the development of shipbuilding.
• Naval armament. Examples of weapons used in the navy, from ancient cannons to modern weapons.
• Naval uniforms. Various types of uniforms of the Belgian Navy, including rare historical examples.
• Navigational instruments and maps. Compass, sextant, sea charts used in sea voyages and battles.
• Memorabilia and documents. Artifacts and documents related to naval battles and the history of the flotilla.

For visitors to the museum, the naval history collection is a real journey into the past, where each exhibit reveals unique facts about the Belgian fleet and its contribution to naval battles. Particularly recommended are the ship models and historical maps, which most fully convey the atmosphere of naval operations and great discoveries. The museum will leave vivid impressions on those interested in the history of navigation and military technology.

Interesting fact:

One of the unique exhibits in the collection is a ship cannon from the 18th century, which was used in naval battles and bears traces of those times.

History of Aviation

The History of Aviation exhibition at the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels has evolved over decades, covering significant milestones in the development of aviation. The collection includes rare models of aircraft, helicopters, as well as a variety of equipment and pilot uniforms, allowing visitors to follow the evolution of technology since the beginning of the 20th century. The collection is based on aircraft used in military operations and became symbols of their times, making it an important educational and historical element of the museum.

Main items of the “History of Aviation” collection:

• De Havilland DH.4: A World War I aircraft used for reconnaissance and bombing, one of the oldest models in the collection.
• Supermarine Spitfire: A British fighter aircraft of World War II that played a key role in the Battle of Britain and became a legend.
• Lockheed F-104 Starfighter: A Cold War-era jet aircraft that represents an era of rapid technological progress.
• Bell UH-1 Iroquois (Huey): a helicopter emblematic of the Vietnam War, widely used for troop transport.
• F-16 Fighting Falcon: One of the modern fighters that illustrates the technological advances and continuing development of military aviation.

Visitors are encouraged to pay special attention to the fighters from World War II and the jet models of the 20th century, which demonstrate important achievements in the field of aviation technology. The exhibition allows you to not only see the planes up close, but also to learn more about their role in historical events. The equipment used by the pilots and the stories of famous air battles add a special flavor to the exhibition and help to feel the atmosphere of different eras.

Interesting fact:

The collection features a rare example of a Supermarine aircraft Spitfire, one of the few surviving examples that took part in the Battle of Britain.

History of colonial wars

The History of Colonial Wars section of the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels showcases Belgium’s complex past, focusing on its colonial expeditions and their aftermath. The collection was formed through the arrival of artefacts brought back by soldiers and diplomats, as well as private donations. The exhibition offers the opportunity to see rare objects that provide insight into the different stages of the colonial era, including the everyday life and culture of the places with which Belgium came into contact.

The main items of the collection “History of Colonial Wars”:

• Weapons and equipment: traditional and rare examples of weapons from Africa and Asia, including swords, spears and ritual objects.
• Uniforms and insignia: Military uniforms and various insignia used during colonial periods.
• Maps and documents: original maps, reports and military plans revealing the strategic directions of Belgian colonial expansion.
• Household and decorative art objects: artefacts reflecting the life and culture of the peoples with whom the Belgians interacted.
• Photographs and Paintings: Rare photographs and artwork illustrating scenes from colonial life and important historical events.

For visitors interested in history and politics, the section “History of the Colonial Wars” will be a valuable and educational experience. It is recommended to pay attention to the unique artefacts that reveal both the military side and the cultural aspects of life in the Belgian colonies. The exhibition helps to better understand the impact of the colonial wars on modern political and social structures, as well as on the cultural heritage of Belgium.

Advice:

The exhibition is regularly updated and may include temporary exhibitions, so it is better to check the program before visiting on the museum’s official website.

The First and Second World Wars

The collection dedicated to the First and Second World Wars at the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels has been formed through a long process spanning decades. At the beginning of the 20th century, the museum began collecting artefacts related to the Belgian participation in world conflicts, and since then the collection has been significantly expanded. The exhibits include unique objects that tell the story of military strategy, the lives of soldiers, and the victims of war. Today, the museum is an important center for the study of history, offering visitors the opportunity to see how the two world wars changed not only Belgium, but the entire world.

Main items of the collection First and Second World Wars:

• Belgian Military Uniforms: Unique examples of uniforms used by the Belgian Army during the World Wars, including helmets, medals and pieces of equipment.
• Weapons and equipment: Various types of weapons, from rifles to heavy guns, as well as military equipment such as tanks and vehicles used in battles.
• Documents and photographs: rare documents, letters from the front and photographs that illustrate the daily life of soldiers and the events of the war.
• Military awards and medals: awards that were given to Belgian soldiers for bravery, as well as medals from other countries involved in the wars.
• Aircraft and vehicle models: replicas of aircraft and combat vehicles used in air battles during World War II, with detailed explanations of their technical characteristics.
• History of Resistance: exhibits dedicated to the Belgian resistance during the German occupation in World War II.

Visitors are encouraged to begin with the section on the Belgian Army and its involvement in both world wars to understand the country’s role in these major conflicts. Particularly noteworthy are the displays on the Belgian Resistance and the aviation collection. Also worth visiting are the interactive exhibits that offer insight into the war from the perspective of the soldiers and civilians who suffered during these events. These collections provide a deeper understanding of the tragedy and heroism that many people experienced during the world wars.

Interesting fact:

The museum houses one of the rare examples of a German tank captured in World War II, which is an important part of the collection of military equipment.

Temporary exhibitions and events

The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and events that provide insight into the history of military conflicts and military equipment. These exhibitions often cover topics related to world wars, historical figures, and technological advances in weapons. The museum also organizes events such as lectures, round tables, and workshops that can be of interest to both adults and children. Temporary exhibitions are a great opportunity to learn about new aspects of military history and see rare exhibits that are not always accessible to the general public.

List of temporary exhibitions and events:

• Exhibition “Weapons of War: The Evolution of Arms”. This exhibition is dedicated to the development of weapons from the Middle Ages to the present day. Particular attention is paid to weapons used during the world wars, as well as weapons used in modern military conflicts.
• Exhibition “Military Pilots and Aviation”. The exhibition is dedicated to the development of aviation, from the first flights to modern military aviation equipment. The exhibition includes rare models of aircraft and fighters used in the largest air battles.
• Event “Story Night: Veterans’ Stories”. During this event, war veterans share their memories and experiences. Spectators can ask questions and hear real stories from the battlefield, which will help to better understand the scale of human sacrifice and courage in wartime.
• Master class “War games and reconstruction”. This master class will allow participants to learn about methods of reconstructing historical battles and wars, as well as take part in simulating events. The master class is suitable for both beginners and more experienced participants.
• Exhibition “The Impact of Colonial Wars”. The exhibition is dedicated to the role of Belgium in colonial wars, including events in Africa and Asia. The exhibition presents rare archival documents and personal belongings of soldiers who participated in these conflicts.

Visiting the temporary exhibitions at the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History is a unique opportunity not only to immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere, but also to broaden your knowledge of the military history of Belgium and the world. Each exhibition or event is an in-depth exploration of a specific topic, with many rare and interesting exhibits. It is important to follow the schedule, as the exhibitions change, and each visit can reveal something new and exciting.

Interesting fact:

The museum offers interactive elements in its exhibitions, allowing visitors to not only watch but also actively participate in the process of learning about history.

How to get to the museum

The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels is conveniently located and accessible to all tourists. It is located in close proximity to the city center and is well connected to the transport network, making travel convenient. Whether you choose public transport, a taxi or a car, getting to the museum is easy. The museum is located near famous attractions such as Park Street and the Aviation Museum, making it even easier to find.

Ways to get there:

• Tram: Tram line 92 or 94, stop ” Musée du Cinquantenaire ” (5 minutes walk to the museum).
• Trolleybus: trolleybus line no. 59, stop ” Cinquantenaire ” (no more than 5 minutes walk).
• Bus: bus line 27, stop ” Cinquantenaire ” (5 minutes walk).
• Metro: Schuman metro station (lines 1 and 5), then 10 minutes walk through the park.
• Car: For motorists, parking is available on the street or in the nearby car parks on Schuman Square.
• On foot: The museum is within walking distance of many central areas of Brussels, especially if you want to stroll through the picturesque park.

Parking near the museum is limited, but there are several paid car parks in the surrounding areas, including those near Parc Longchamp and Place Schuman. It is also worth considering that in the centre of Brussels, the museum is easily accessible on foot if you want to combine the museum with a walk through the historic part of the city. Don’t forget that there are many cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat after the tour.

Interesting fact:

The museum is located in the heart of Brussels and is part of a larger complex that includes the Royal Park and the Aviation Museum, allowing you to not only enjoy history but also relax in the fresh air.

Ticket prices, opening hours, contacts

For up-to-date information on visiting the Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels, including ticket prices, opening hours and contact details, visitors can consult the museum’s official website. The museum always updates information on current exhibitions, events and schedule changes. This will help you plan your visit and not miss important events. It is also worth noting that various discounts and family tickets are available for the convenience of visitors.

Useful information:

• Ticket prices: adults – €10, children under 18 – free.
• Opening hours: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, closed on Mondays.
• Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire 3, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
• Phone: +32 2 737 78 31.
• Official website: http://www.klm-mrah.be.

The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History in Brussels is a significant cultural and historical site where every visitor can learn more about military traditions, key events in world history and technical achievements. Don’t miss the chance to visit it to see unique exhibits that reflect important pages of history. Remember that it is better to check the latest information about the schedule and special exhibitions before visiting.