Introduction

At Porte d’Anderlecht, the Sewer Museum offers a look at Brussels’ underground infrastructure, the history and importance of its sewer network, and the often hazardous work of sewer workers. Visitors can explore two neoclassical-style granting pavilions, stroll along the banks of the Senne, and enter a real sewer. The museum also explains the role of the River Senne, which was vaulted in the 19th century because of frequent flooding and pollution (source).

Brussels has nearly 1,900 km of sewer network, and the museum explores how this system is built and maintained, as well as techniques for controlling floods (source).

History and Significance

Origins and Development

Established on May 30, 1988, the museum grew out of frequent requests to the Sewer Department of the City of Brussels to organize tours of its underground network. The granting pavilions of the Anderlecht gate were chosen because they cover the Senne sluice, a collector, and secondary tributaries (source).

Architectural Significance

The museum is housed in two former neoclassical-style granting pavilions. Visitors enter one and leave through the other, learning about sewage workers’ tasks and methods of combating floods. The route follows the banks of the Senne and enters the collector sewer of the Chaussée de Mons, which remains in service (source).

The Role of the River Senne

The Senne was once an open-air river flowing through Brussels. It was vaulted in the 19th century because of frequent flooding and pollution. Archival photographs show its transformation into a hidden underground waterway (source).

Sewer Network and Infrastructure

Nearly 1,900 km of sewer network runs beneath Brussels, carrying thousands of cubic meters of wastewater each day. The museum explains the construction and maintenance of this extensive system and the techniques used to control flooding (source).

The Profession of Sewer Workers

Photos, models, and objects introduce visitors to the challenging and often hazardous work of sewer workers. An audio guide provides further insights into the profession (source).

Water Management and Environmental Impact

The museum explains the city’s water cycle and how daily water use affects sewer functioning, encouraging reflection on personal water consumption and its environmental implications (source).

Renovations and Modernization

Renovations in 2007 enhanced the museum’s exhibits and visitor experience. The Department of Culture has managed the museum since the end of 2015, and it partners with VIVAQUA to provide current information on wastewater collection and treatment.

Interactive and Educational Exhibits

The museum has interactive and educational exhibits for visitors of all ages. Children can use games and puzzles in the explorer’s notebook, while an animated audio guide lets visitors explore at their own pace (source).

The exhibition ‘Rattus’ ran from September 15, 2023, to June 16, 2024. It explored the brown rat, Rattus norvegicus, and its adaptation to urban environments, particularly sewers, including its biology, behavior, and relationship with human waste (source).

The exhibition displayed objects gnawed by rats, including TV remote controls, lead pipes, and soap. These items came from the Max Hagner Collection at the Cantonal Museum of Natural Sciences of Lausanne and illustrated the rats’ ability to chew through a wide range of materials (source).

Visitors could watch sewer footage captured by camera traps as part of the ARMAGUEDON Project by the National Museum of Natural History (MNHN). Audio excerpts from interviews with Brussels sewer workers shared their experiences and described services rats can provide, such as alerting people to imminent disasters (source).

Educational programs for children and adults cover the sewer system, its history, and its role in urban life. The museum also provides information on zoonotic diseases such as leptospirosis, which can be transmitted by rats. According to Sciensano, a few dozen cases of leptospirosis are diagnosed in Belgium each year, often contracted during activities such as swimming or water sports in fresh water (source).

Special Events and Activities

The museum hosts events such as the Brussels Museums Nocturnes and Heritage Days. It also takes part in initiatives such as Water Day, with creative activities to raise awareness of water management and conservation (source).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays. Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.

General admission is €8 for adults, €6 for seniors and students, and €4 for children aged 6–18. Children under 6 enter for free. For current ticket prices, visit the official Sewer Museum website.

Guided tours should be booked in advance to ensure availability.

The museum is at Porte d’Anderlecht, 1000 Brussels. Nearby metro and bus stops provide public transport access.

Accessibility

The museum aims to welcome visitors with special needs. It provides ramps and accessible restrooms, and staff are trained to assist visitors. Tailor-made guided tours are available for groups with specific requirements.

Visitor Tips

Plan ahead Check the museum’s website for the latest information on exhibits, ticket prices, and opening hours.
Wear comfortable shoes The visit involves walking, including in areas that may be damp or uneven.
Explore the interactive features These include sewer footage and audio interviews.
Look for educational materials The museum offers programs and materials about the sewer system and its impact on urban life.
Photography Check with museum staff about photography restrictions; some areas may allow photos and others may not.
Gift shop The shop sells souvenirs and memorabilia related to the exhibits, including educational books, toys, and rat-themed merchandise.

Nearby Attractions

Other Brussels attractions mentioned for a visit include:

The Grand Place A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Manneken Pis The iconic statue of a little boy urinating.
The Atomium.
The Royal Palace The official palace of the Belgian monarchy, open to the public during the summer months.
The Magritte Museum Dedicated to the work of surrealist artist René Magritte, a short distance from the Sewer Museum.

Dining Options

Chez Léon Known for mussels and fries.
La Roue d'Or Known for its Art Deco interior and classic Belgian dishes.
Peck 47 A café offering healthy food and options for a quick lunch or snack.

Photographic Spots

The sewer tunnels, the ‘Rattus’ exhibition, and historical artifacts are among the museum’s photographic subjects. Check with staff for any photography restrictions.

FAQ

What are the visiting hours for the Sewer Museum?

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays.

How much are tickets for the Sewer Museum?