Royal Museum for Central Africa, Overijse
Facts and practical information
The Royal Museum for Central Africa, located in the serene suburb of Tervuren, just outside Brussels, Belgium, is a window into the heart of the African continent. This expansive museum, established in 1897, is set within the lush greenery of Tervuren Park, offering a culturally rich and educational experience for its visitors.
As one of the world's most fascinating African museums, it boasts an impressive collection that spans the realms of ethnography, history, art, and natural sciences. The museum's exhibits delve into the diverse cultures and societies of Africa, showcasing a wide array of artifacts, traditional costumes, and unique musical instruments. Additionally, it houses an extensive collection of African fauna, including a stunning display of taxidermied animals in lifelike settings.
The museum also serves as a critical center for research, with a focus on understanding and preserving the continent's rich heritage and biodiversity. It has an important role in dialogues about colonial history and the effects of European imperialism, offering a nuanced perspective on the complex relationship between Africa and the West.
Visitors can expect to be transported through time and space as they wander through the beautifully curated galleries. The museum's architecture itself is a sight to behold, with its palatial structures and grand halls reminiscent of a bygone era.
Royal Museum for Central Africa – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Brussels Tram Museum, Rouge-Cloître Abbey, Moulin Lindekemale, Château Malou.