Buzz
Belgium stands out as the only country globally with a concentration of comic artists within 1 square kilometer in the capital. Now, the comic streets in Brussels have become a unique journey for travelers to explore the culture.
Comics have always been a source of pride for Belgians with over 700 authors. The country leads the world in the comic field and is considered the cradle of the ninth art.
In 1991, the city government collaborated with the Belgian Comic Strip Center to launch the Comic Art Journey project in Brussels, with the first comic wall over 45m² inaugurated in July 1991.
However, according to locals and tourists, this did not befit the status of a comic capital. Therefore, the project quickly expanded. Today, Brussels boasts no less than 50 giant comic murals along familiar streets in the city center and around a dozen hidden in various neighborhoods.
In the capital city of Brussels, specialty shops with miniature model collections, bookstores, museums, monuments, and comic murals appear throughout the streets. Hence, many comic fans make a 'pilgrimage' to Belgium to 'meet' timeless fictional characters.
At local travel companies, a variety of comic exploration tours are always introduced to tourists.
Following the adventures of Tintin, a iconic Belgian comic character first introduced in 1929 by the artist Hergé, is a journey frequently sought after by travelers.
Famous French-Belgian comic characters worldwide such as Lucky Luke, The Smurfs, Spotted Deer, and Asterix also feature on giant murals, becoming popular attractions for tourists.
Nowadays, among the millions of visitors to Belgium, many are keen on exploring the comic journey of Brussels!
Even if you're not an avid comic fan, strolling through the comic streets in the heart of Brussels, amidst dreams and reality, will elevate your understanding of Belgium's rich cultural heritage.
Above all, this will be an unconventional and extremely enjoyable way to discover the capital of Belgium...
In just 2 hours of walking, tourists will explore the interaction between the expression of the ninth art and the urban landscape.
According to social scientists, observing characters and scenes in comic murals is a way for travelers to connect with the local atmosphere, while discovering the city, landmarks, and neighborhoods from a completely unique perspective.
At a turn in a small alley, you'll come face to face with characters from the comic Boule and Bill.
Heading to the area near the famous Manneken Pis statue, you'll encounter Tintin, his dog Snowy, and Captain Haddock. Or just a couple of steps from the miniature European park, you'll find Spirou from the comic waiting for you...
After tracing the comic characters who captivated generations of readers along the boulevards of Brussels, you'll learn about their private lives and professions. Visit their childhood homes and workplaces, narrated with charm by the local guide.
Brussels boasts no less than four comic museums. Among them, the Belgian Comic Strip Center, the Comic House next to the central station, the Marc Sleen Museum and Society... are the most visited places by tourists.
Visiting Brussels in May, June, or September, October, gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of comics, as these are the months when comic festivals take place with numerous impressive activities. Be prepared to mingle with the crowds during this exciting time in Brussels!
According to Tuoitre.vn
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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
MytourNovember 11, 2015
