Plizio Visual Lab
Royal Museums of Fine Arts
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in Brussels, constitute the most significant art institution in the country, housing a collection of over 20,000 works. Founded in 1801 by decree of Napoleon Bonaparte, the complex now includes several specialized museums, such as the Oldmasters Museum, the Modern Museum, and the world-renowned Magritte Museum. The Oldmasters collection features masterpieces by Flemish Primitives and Baroque giants, including Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Peter Paul Rubens, and Anthony van Dyck. Situated in the heart of the capital on the Coudenberg hill, the buildings themselves are architectural landmarks of neoclassical design. A major highlight is the Magritte Museum, opened in 2009, which presents the world’s largest collection of works by the Belgian surrealist René Magritte. Covering European art history from the 15th century to the present day, the museums serve as a vital repository of Belgian cultural heritage and a leading center for international art research.
- Location: Belgium
- Top sights: Musée Fin de siècle - Fin de siècle Museum · Musée Oldmasters - Oldmasters Museum · Palace of the Count of Flanders
- Nearby: Grimbergen (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 61 | 55 | 38 | 59 | 63 | 75 | 79 | 55 | 63 | 69 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The museum was officially established on September 1, 1801, via the Chaptal Decree.
- The total collection consists of more than 20,000 paintings, sculptures, and drawings.
- The Magritte Museum alone houses over 200 works by the surrealist master.
- The main neoclassical building was designed by the prominent architect Alphonse Balat.
- The Oldmasters section is famous for its extensive collection of Rubens' altarpieces.
- An underground connection linking the museums was completed in the late 20th century.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Royal Museums of Fine Arts (10)
Musée Magritte Museum🏛 museum
Art museum in Brussels, part of the Royal Museums, dedicated to René Magritte.
Palace of National Industry🏰 castle
Palace in Brussels, Belgium, housing the National Industry exhibition.
Korean Cultural Center
Cultural center in Brussels, presenting Korean art and traditions.
Hôtel Belle-Vue🏰 castle
Town palace in Brussels, Belgium, historic building on the Place Royale.
Chapelle protestante - Protestantse Kapel
Protestant church building in Brussels, Belgium, on the Place du Musée.
Real Fine Art
Gallery in Brussels, Belgium, exhibiting contemporary and modern art.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which museums belong to this complex?
Where is the Magritte Museum?
Are there lockers?
How much time do you need for everything?
Is the museum open on Mondays?
Royal Museums of Fine Arts: where is it located?
Royal Museums of Fine Arts: what is there to see?
Royal Museums of Fine Arts: when is the best time to visit?
Royal Museums of Fine Arts: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
