Jmh2o · CC BY-SA 4.0 Why visit
The museum presents large collections relating to Central Africa while also confronting the colonial circumstances in which many objects and scientific collections were assembled. The visit is worthwhile because it brings several strands of Belgian history and landscape together in one clearly legible setting. Time on site can focus on Central African collections, colonial-history interpretation, natural-history displays, while the surrounding streets, grounds or scenery provide useful context. It works especially well as part of a regional itinerary because the place adds a distinct subject rather than repeating the experience of nearby attractions.
What you will see
- Central African collections.
- colonial-history interpretation.
- natural-history displays.
- Tervuren palace setting.
History
The institution grew from the 1897 colonial exhibition at Tervuren and later became a permanent museum. A major twenty-first-century renovation reworked both the building and the interpretation of Belgium's colonial past.
Visitor tips
- 1
Allow enough time to understand the surrounding setting as well as the principal feature, and follow local signs where historic surfaces, protected areas or active public spaces affect access.
About Flemish Brabant
Flemish Brabant combines Leuven's university and Gothic heritage with the Sonian-forest fringe, historic estates and accessible woodland south and east of Brussels.
Open the Belgium guide
