Brussels: A safe heaven?

A city of just over a million but home to peoples from 179 nations. The modern multiculturalism of Brussels and its history of hosting many of Europe’s most famous exiles beckons curiosity over the lives of those immigrants who arrived here long ago, and how they helped shape the capital into the global city it is today.

A new exhibition, Brussels: a safe haven? at the Jewish Museum of Belgium sheds light on immigrants to Brussels that began arriving in the 1830’s; through the possessions they chose to take with them, the photographs that illustrate their lives and the testimonies they gave. Through these mementoes, can we trace their journeys and see what lead them to leave their country? And how did Brussels welcome them upon arriving? Whether it were for a few months or indefinitely.

With migration being a poignant issue for Europe as of late, the exhibition also presents the work of emerging artists based in Brussels (photographers, street artists, sculptors, video makers) who tackle the issue of migration and cultural diversity in Brussels today.

A historical exhibition thats effects echo into the modern world through the parallels with modern movements of people and with the current dynamic of the city itself.

Good to know:

• Until March 18, 2018.
• Price: 10€
• Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 to 17:00
• Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00
• Address: 21 rue des Minimes – 1000 – Brussels