Armour, tanks and aircraft from the medieval period to the World Wars.
The Royal Army Museum, officially the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, occupies the halls on the south side of the Parc du Cinquantenaire in Brussels, Belgium. The buildings were constructed for the national exhibition of 1880 marking fifty years of Belgian independence and were extended with the triumphal arch, completed in 1905 under King Leopold II. The military collections were installed here in the early 20th century, and the museum has grown to become one of the largest military museums in Europe, with entry free of charge.
The museum is divided into large halls organised broadly by theme and period. The weapons and armour galleries present swords, firearms, helmets, cuirasses and uniforms from the medieval period onwards, including pieces from the Burgundian and Habsburg Low Countries. The First and Second World War galleries are among the most substantial sections, using uniforms, weapons, posters, vehicles, documents and reconstructed scenes to explain the invasions of Belgium in 1914 and 1940, the occupation, resistance, and the liberation. A hall of vehicles displays tanks, armoured cars and other equipment.
The Air and Space hall, in the large iron-and-glass Bordiau Hall, holds a collection of aircraft covering the history of aviation from early flying machines through the First World War to jet fighters of the Cold War. Aircraft are suspended and displayed on the floor, so visitors can view them from several angles. The museum's approach is largely chronological, combined with thematic displays that cover both the Belgian forces and those of other nations.
The building has been restored and renovated in stages, and some sections have been closed or reorganised during different periods, so visitors should check which halls are open. The triumphal arch above the museum gives access to a viewing platform over the city when open. The museum is close to the Merode and Schuman metro stations and is typically combined with the other museums in the park, including Autoworld and the Art and History museum.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Tuesday-Sunday 09:00-17:00 (verify) |
| Address | Parc du Cinquantenaire 3, 1000 Brussels |
Location
Parc du Cinquantenaire 3, 1000 Brussels
50.8412, 4.3938 View on map
Highlights
- Aircraft collection in the Bordiau Hall
- Armour and weapons from the medieval period onwards
- First and Second World War galleries with vehicles and uniforms
- Tanks and armoured vehicles hall
- Free admission in the Cinquantenaire Park
Tips for visiting
- Start in the Air and Space hall if short of time, as it is the visual highlight.
- Entry is free, so a short visit can be made alongside other park museums.
- Check which halls are open before visiting, as some are periodically closed.
- Ask at the entrance about the triumphal arch viewing platform.
- Allow a full morning for the World War galleries.
When to visit
Weekday mornings are quietest; the museum is a good choice on rainy days.
Accessibility
The halls are large and mostly on level floors with lifts between levels. Wheelchair users should confirm access to specific galleries with the museum beforehand.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the museum English-language friendly?
Yes. Most displays carry captions in several languages including English, alongside French and Dutch.
How long does a full visit take?
Two to three hours covers the main halls, though enthusiasts can spend a full day.
Can you visit with kids?
Yes. The aircraft and tanks are popular with children and entry is free.
Is there an admission charge?
Admission to the permanent collection has been free; check the official site for special exhibitions.