Large granite block weighing 700 kg from the Maison du Peuple in Brussels, dated 1899, displayed at the Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgian Centre For Comic Strip Art

Belgian Centre for Comic Strip Art: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Brussels’ Comic Heritage

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Brussels, the Belgian Centre for Comic Strip Art (BCSCA)—also known as the Comic Art Museum—serves as a vibrant tribute to Belgium’s rich legacy in comic strip culture. Celebrated as the “ninth art,” comics are woven into the fabric of Belgian identity, with Brussels recognized as a European capital for this beloved medium. Housed in a magnificently restored Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta, the museum blends architectural grandeur with comic art heritage, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience.

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for planning your visit, including opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, exhibition highlights, travel tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a lifelong fan of Tintin and the Smurfs, a family in search of engaging activities, or simply captivated by Art Nouveau architecture, the BCSCA is an essential stop for anyone exploring Brussels.

For the latest updates and additional resources, consult the official museum website and Brussels tourism portals (Comics Center Official Website, Visit Brussels).

Street view of Rue Schtroumf in the Belgian Comic Strip Center, Brussels, Belgium

Signature of Peyo at the Belgian Comic Strip Center

Introduction
Historical Background and Cultural Significance
Permanent and Temporary Exhibitions
Visitor Amenities and Facilities
Planning Your Visit: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

From Warehouse to World-Class Museum

The BCSCA is housed in the former Waucquez Warehouse, an Art Nouveau masterpiece crafted by renowned architect Victor Horta in 1906. Originally a textile store, the building was saved from dereliction and meticulously restored in the 1980s, thanks to comic art advocates and the Belgian government. Its transformation into a museum in 1989 marked a turning point for the preservation and celebration of Belgian comic heritage (Wikipedia).

The “Ninth Art” in Belgium

Belgium boasts the world’s highest density of comic strip authors and is globally acclaimed for iconic characters such as Tintin (Hergé), the Smurfs (Peyo), Lucky Luke (Morris), and Gaston Lagaffe (André Franquin). The BCSCA stands as a bridge between French-speaking Wallonia and Dutch-speaking Flanders, reflecting Belgium’s multicultural identity while honoring its pivotal role in the evolution of comics.

Architectural Splendor

Visitors are welcomed by soaring ironwork, elegant curves, and luminous glass ceilings—a true showcase of Brussels’ Art Nouveau legacy. The setting itself is a work of art, enhancing the experience of exploring the history and creativity of comic strips (expatstraveltogether.com).

Permanent and Temporary Exhibitions

Permanent Exhibitions

Showcase of Imagination (1929–1960): Explore the golden age of Belgian comics through original drawings, manuscripts, and memorabilia of legendary characters.
Tintin and Hergé Gallery: Delve into Hergé’s creative process with sketches, storyboards, and immersive displays highlighting the adventures of Tintin.
The Smurfs, Lucky Luke, and More: Discover the art and history behind Belgium’s most famous comic creations, with exhibits dedicated to both French-speaking and Flemish artists.
Behind the Scenes: Learn how comics are made—from scriptwriting and drawing to printing—through interactive displays and original tools.
Animation and Forgotten Films: A room dedicated to Belgian animated films, featuring rare storyboards and vintage animation equipment.
Library and Reading Room: Thousands of comic albums and reference works are available for visitors seeking deeper exploration (belganewsagency.eu).

Temporary and Rotating Exhibitions

The museum regularly hosts themed and retrospective exhibitions, often highlighting contemporary artists, international comics, and special anniversaries. In 2025, highlights include “Ping-pong club. 25 years L’employé du moi” and a tribute to Claude Renard (Comic Art Museum - Exhibitions).
These dynamic displays ensure there’s always something new for repeat visitors (visit.brussels).

Visitor Amenities and Facilities

Brasserie Horta: Savor Belgian cuisine or enjoy a snack in the museum’s stylish Art Nouveau brasserie (Belgium Travel).
Bookshop (“Slumberland”): Browse a wide selection of comics, graphic novels, art books, and souvenirs.
Auditorium and Event Spaces: Attend lectures, screenings, and artist talks.
Family and Educational Services: Participate in Sunday sketching sessions, creative workshops, and family-friendly activities designed for all ages.
Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, ramps, and multilingual signage (Comic Art Museum - Practical Information).

Planning Your Visit: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Location

Address: 20 Rue des Sables / Zandstraat, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Getting There

By Train: Short walk from Brussels-Central and Brussels-Congress stations.
By Metro/Tram/Bus: Easily accessible via public transport.
By Car: Parking available at Interparking Passage 44; closer parking is often possible on weekends.
By Bicycle: Bicycle parking in front of the museum.
For Coaches: Drop-off and parking on Boulevard Pacheco.

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (last admission at 5:00 pm)
Closed on Mondays, December 25, and January 1.
Special hours apply on December 24 and 31 (Comic Art Museum - Opening Hours).

Admission Fees

Adults: €13.00
Seniors (65+) / Youth (12–25 years): €10.00
Children (6–11 years): €6.00
Family Pack (2 adults + 2 children): €36.00
Children under 6: Free
Discounts: Free with MuseumPASSmusées, Brussels Card, Art Nouveau Pass, ICOM, or press card (Comic Art Museum - Opening Hours and Admission Fees).

Ticketing

Advance Booking: Not mandatory for individuals; recommended for groups over 15 (Comic Art Museum - Practical Information).
Online Tickets: Purchase via the museum’s ticket shop.

Facilities & Services

Cloakroom: Storage for coats and bags.
Wi-Fi: Free throughout the museum.
Library/Reading Room: Extensive comic collections for browsing.
Languages: Exhibition texts in French, Dutch, and English.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Arrive Early: Especially during weekends and holidays, early arrival helps avoid crowds.
Combine with Other Sights: The museum’s central location is ideal for visiting the Grand-Place, Galeries Saint-Hubert, and the Comic Strip Route—an open-air trail of over 80 comic murals (Oh The Places They Went).
Workshops & Events: Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions, Sunday sketching sessions, and family workshops (Comicstrip.be).
Dining: Enjoy a meal or snack at Brasserie Horta before or after your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance?
A: Advance booking is not required for individuals but is necessary for groups over 15.

Q: Is the museum accessible for people with reduced mobility?
A: Yes, the museum is fully wheelchair accessible.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted in most areas; always check for signage.

Q: Are there family activities?
A: Yes, interactive exhibits, workshops, and sketching sessions are available for all ages.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Interparking Passage 44 is recommended on weekdays; weekend parking closer to the museum is often available.

Conclusion

The Belgian Centre for Comic Strip Art offers an unparalleled journey into the world of comics, blending Belgium’s architectural and artistic heritage with engaging, family-friendly experiences. With its central location, extensive facilities, and vibrant exhibitions, it is a highlight of any Brussels itinerary. Plan your visit today—book tickets online, explore nearby attractions, and stay updated on events and exhibitions through the official website and the Audiala app for guided tours and additional resources.