The review of the neighboring Magritte Museum in Brussels, Belgium. Entrance fee 8 €, open from 11 to 18, from Tuesday to Sunday.
Renè Magritte he is, in my opinion, the artist who best represents Belgium: he is ironic, a little naif, simple. His paintings have an immediate impact, but behind the clear visual meaning hides a world of hidden meanings. Not for nothing, Magritte is one of the most important exponents of surrealism and Brussels he dedicated a museum to him, right in the Place Royale.
The building that houses the permanent collection is an imposing neoclassical building, which once housed an elegant hotel. The contrast with the artist's works is evident even before entering. It's open from 11 to 18, from Tuesday to Sunday and the full ticket costs € 8. You can also buy combined tickets with the neighbor Fine Arts Museum.
Of the latter I only saw the atrium, where the common ticket office is located. The building is very elegant and houses more than 20000 works: it is in fact one of the main museums in Belgium. Flemish painting is the strong point of the collection: Bruegel and Van Dyck are among the most popular names and an entire room is reserved for Rubens. Too bad we didn't have time to visit it!
The rooms of the Magritte Museum are very large and occupy the entire floors of the building. For those unfamiliar with the artist, there are explanatory panels at the beginning of each thematic path, divided chronologically, with the story of Magritte and some famous quotes. I still recommend theaudio guide to make the visit more understandable.
The permanent collection is obviously vast and the most recent time band is perhaps the most interesting, because it represents that Magritte of the pipe and white clouds that we are used to recognizing in school books. The combination of figurative paintings and statues is well set up and although there were many people, I was able to observe the works adequately, taking my time.
I was expecting a more interactive and captivating exhibition, given Magritte's style. His works would allow a greater involvement of the viewer, especially children. In this way, however, we remain on a traditional museum style, which although interesting, does not involve the visitor much.
Don't miss it shop themed: the unusual souvenirs are many! From mirrors with integrated hats to cups with fish and other typical prints of the artist's production, which will appeal to young and old alike. The prices are a bit high, but the items are really unusual and you will get a unique memory of your stay in Brussels.
Worth visiting? If you have time or are fascinated by the artist, yes. Otherwise, it's a museum you can leave behind on your Brussels tour. Do not miss the surroundings instead: from the royal palace to the strange building of the Museum of Musical Instruments. With a short walk you will arrive at the delightful church of Our Lady, which is located just in front of the garden of Place du Petit Sablon, in which 48 statuettes placed on as many columns reproduce the main trades of the city.
