Brussels’ Art & History Museum Unveils Spectacular New Decorative Arts Galleries

The Royal Museums of Art and History are opening the doors to their most ambitious project in 25 years — and you’re invited to discover it for free.

From June 13 to 15, visitors can enjoy complimentary access to two newly inaugurated galleries at the Art & History Museum in Brussels, celebrating Belgium’s rich heritage in 19th-century decorative arts, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco. In view of the opening to the wider public, Their Majesties the King and Queen visited the new spaces on 10 June.

A Long-Awaited Revival of Hidden Treasures

The new spaces mark a major milestone in the museum’s evolution, presenting long-unseen masterpieces in a fresh, immersive setting designed to highlight their artistic and historical significance.

The Art Nouveau and Art Deco gallery (715 m²) is a visual feast, immersing visitors in the dynamic world of Belgian modern decorative arts. Born in Brussels in 1893, Art Nouveau is showcased through emblematic works by Victor Horta, Henry van de Velde, Paul Hankar, and others. A true highlight is the fully restored winter garden from the Maison Cousin by Horta — an architectural gem unveiled to the public for the first time.

This vibrant narrative continues with an exploration of Belgian Art Deco, revealing its stylistic diversity and modernist elegance.

In parallel, the 19th-Century Decorative Arts gallery (500 m²) offers a rich journey through major 19th-century styles such as Empire, Neo-Gothic, and Japonism. This new space paints a detailed portrait of bourgeois life in the 1800s, featuring exquisite furniture, everyday objects, and rare masterpieces. Several highlights have been generously loaned by the King Baudouin Foundation.

A Cultural Celebration

This three-day opening celebration is more than just a visit — it’s an invitation to rediscover Belgian artistic heritage in one of the country’s most iconic museums. Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious, these new galleries promise a compelling cultural experience.

The museum is located in Parc du Cinquantenaire and easily accessible by public transport.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to step into the past and celebrate the beauty of Belgian design — admission is free from June 13 to 15.