Royal Library of Belgium

BrükselIn the heart of , a historical and cultural treasure Belgium The Royal Library (KBR) is not just a library, but also a centre for history and art. Dating back to the 15th century, this fascinating venue offers an unforgettable experience for history buffs, art lovers and all travellers in search of cultural discovery.

General Information About the Library

The Royal Library of Belgium offers visitors a unique experience by preserving a historical heritage in a modern way. The library is not only a research center, but also a treasure trove for lovers of history, art and culture. Here is what you need to know about the library:

Location and Architecture

• Address: Mont des Arts/Kunstberg is located in the centre of Brussels, just a few minutes' walk from Brussels Central Station.
• Architectural: Built in the second half of the 20th century, the modern building was dedicated to the memory of King Albert I. Designed by architect Maurice Houyoux, the structure provided the library with both functional and aesthetic space.

Extensive Collections

KBR is the largest library in Belgium, with a huge collection of Belgian cultural treasures. The scope of the collection can be summarized as follows:

Research and its cultural role

• National Library: All works published in Belgium or written by Belgian authors are collected here, making the library a national memory centre.
• Worldwide Reach: The collection can be used not only by local but also international researchers. The library is a strong reference source for academic studies.
• Digitalization Studies: Compatible with modern technology, the library increases accessibility by converting many manuscripts and books into digital format.

Special Terms for Users

KBR is not a library that everyone can access; it can be used under certain conditions:

• Age limit: The library is open only to users aged 18 and over.
• Membership: An annual membership fee is required to log in.
• Reference Purposes Use: The library does not offer a loan service. Items can only be examined on site.

International Recognition

The KBR is considered one of the most prestigious libraries not only in Belgium but in all of Europe. Its collection includes manuscripts of the Dukes of Burgundy, Europe It displays the cultural richness of the Middle Ages and is respected worldwide for the works of artists such as Albrecht Dürer and Rembrandt.

The Royal Library of Belgium offers a fascinating experience for anyone who wants to take a historical journey and see unique works up close. By visiting the library, you can open a window into the cultural memory of Belgium.

History: A Journey in the Footsteps of the Past

The history of the Belgian Royal Library (KBR) is full of dramatic events and important turning points that reflect the cultural heritage of Europe. From the library of the Dukes of Burgundy in the 15th century to its transformation into a modern national library, this building has been not only a centre of knowledge but also a carrier of culture and art throughout history.

The Burgundian Period: The Beginning of a Rich Heritage

• 1467: Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, established one of the most prestigious libraries in Europe, the Library of the Dukes of Burgundy. This collection included some 900 manuscripts decorated by artists such as Flemish miniaturist Simon Marmion and Master Mary of Burgundy.
• Coudenberg Palace: The bulk of the collection was kept in the Coudenberg Palace in Brussels, but some manuscripts were carried with the dukes of Burgundy when they traveled.

Dispersion and Reassembly of the Collection

• 1477: After the death of Charles the Bold, the Burgundian Library passed to his descendants, but the collection suffered from theft, looting and neglect.
• 1559: Philip II established the Royal Library of the Low Countries, gathering all manuscripts together in the Coudenberg Palace. This formed the basis of today's KBR.

Fires and the French Occupation: Loss and Salvation

1731: Coudenberg Palace Fire

A major fire at the Coudenberg Palace destroyed some of the manuscripts. Most of the works were saved by servants who threw them out of windows to save them from the fire. The surviving works were later preserved in the palace's great chapel.

1746 and 1794: Twice the French Plundered

• 1746: The French army occupied Brussels and took many manuscripts belonging to the Dukes of Burgundy to Paris.
• 1770: Some works were returned, but the collection was never fully recovered.
• 1794: During the French Revolution, Napoleon's army transported a large portion of the manuscripts in the collection back to Paris.
• 1815: The Congress of Vienna after Napoleon's defeat allowed the return of most of the manuscripts, but the entire collection was never restored.

Belgian Independence and Modernization

1837: Official Establishment

• After Belgium gained independence, the Royal Library was officially established. 70.000 books from the Charles Van Hulthem collection formed the basis of the library's modern collection.
• 1839: The library was opened for public use and moved to the Palace of Industry in the Palace of Charles of Lorraine.

New Developments and Fire

• 1827: A fire at the Palace of Charles of Lorraine threatened a significant part of the collection. The manuscripts were saved, but the water used in the extinguishing caused irreparable damage to many leather and parchment works.

Transformation in the 20th Century: A Modern Center

1935: A New Building Decision

The Belgian government decided to build a modern library in memory of King Albert I.

• 1954: Designed by architect Maurice Houyoux, the building has begun construction in the Mont des Arts district of Brussels.
• 1969: The library opened its doors in its current modern building, which has become an important part of Belgian cultural life, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality.

Rebranding and Museology in the 21st Century

• 2019: The library was rebranded as “KBR” to reflect its modern role as the national library of Belgium.
• 2020: The KBR Museum was opened. This museum transformed the library from a research centre into a museum displaying manuscripts of the Dukes of Burgundy and artistic objects of the period.

Turning Points

The history of the Royal Library of Belgium is a mirror of the cultural and political transformations of Europe. By visiting the library, you can see the works that travel through this long and turbulent history and witness this unique cultural heritage.

Collections and Sections

The Royal Library of Belgium (KBR) is one of the most prestigious cultural and information centres in Europe due to the richness and diversity of its collections. The library offers a unique treasury in many fields, including history, art, literature, cartography, music and numismatics. The six main departments, each specialized in their own field, continue to fascinate visitors with millions of works.

Manuscripts and Rare Books Department

Manuscripts and rare books form the core of the Library's oldest and most prestigious collections. Centuries-old works from the Middle Ages provide a unique resource for researchers and history enthusiasts.

• Manuscripts: With 32.000 manuscripts, it is one of the most important collections in Europe.
  • Library of the Dukes of Burgundy: Illuminated manuscripts from the Burgundian period are notable, especially for the miniatures by masters such as Simon Marmion and Rogier van der Weyden.
  • Featured Works:
    • Chronicles of Hainaut (15th century): An ornate manuscript depicting the history of Burgundy.
    • Hour Books: Rich religious texts from the Middle Ages.
• Rare Books: 300.000 unique and historically valuable books, from the first editions to the present day.

Maps and Plans Section

This section, consisting of maps and geographical documents, is a great attraction for travelers and historians.

• Collection: 150.000 maps, plans and atlases.
  • Mercator Atlas (1595): One of the groundbreaking works in the history of geography.
  • Urban Plans: Historical plans of Brussels and other European cities.
• Scope:
  • Nautical charts, old geographic atlases and topographic documents.
  • Works covering many periods from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Department of Prints and Drawings

KBR's prints and drawings division is one of the largest print rooms in the world and houses more than 750.000 works.

• Famous Artists:
  • Albrecht Dürer, Pieter Bruegel, Anthony van Dyck and Rembrandt Works of masters such as these adorn the collection.
  • Flemish and Dutch Art: Particularly noteworthy are the works of Pieter Bruegel and Rubens.
• Special Collections:
  • Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints: Rare works by masters like Sharaku.
  • Belgian Artists: Illustrations by Félicien Rops, James Ensor and Léon Spilliaert.
• Ephemera:
  • Objects reflecting everyday life such as postcards, posters, lottery tickets, playing cards and wallpapers.

Department of Music

KBR's Music Department offers a rich collection dedicated to Belgian and European musical history.

• Width of the Collection:
  • More than 100.000 audio recordings, manuscripts and sheet music.
  • Special documents such as the manuscript of Johann Sebastian Bach's BWV 995 – Suite in G Minor.
• Famous Collections:
  • François-Joseph Fétis Collection (1872): More than 5.000 manuscripts and early printed notes.
  • Marc Danval Collection: A unique source for the history of Belgian jazz music.
• International Collaborations:
  • Joint projects with the International Association of Music Libraries (IAML).

Department of Numismatics and Medals

This section has a special place in KBR's collections, offering a wide range of works from ancient coins to modern medals.

• Collection Scope:
  • More than 250.000 objects.
  • Sicilian Tetradrachm (5th century): One of the most valuable coins in numismatics.
• History of Belgium: Objects such as weights and scales used throughout the country's monetary history.

Center for American Studies

For visitors with a special interest in American culture, this section should not be missed.

• Collection:
  • 30.000 books and a rich newspaper archive.
  • Comprehensive documentation of US history and culture.
• Open Shelves: The collection features an open shelving layout for easy access by readers.

Digitalization and Modern Technology

KBR aims to make a large portion of its collections available to a wider audience by digitizing them.

• Digital Archives: Historical maps, manuscripts and rare books can be viewed online.
• Access for Researchers: The library offers digital databases and tools for scholars.

Featured Section: KBR Museum

Opened in 2020, the KBR Museum is a centre for displaying the unique manuscripts of the Library of the Dukes of Burgundy.

• Exhibited Works:
  • The Chronicles of Hainaut, commissioned by Philip the Good.
  • Miniatures by Rogier van der Weyden and other Flemish masters.
• Historical Context: The museum reflects the spirit of the period, complementing manuscripts with paintings, sculptures, weapons and everyday objects.

Importance of Collections

The collections of the Royal Library of Belgium are a mirror reflecting not only the history, culture and art of Belgium but also of Europe. Each section offers visitors a unique opportunity for discovery with its own distinctive features.

KBR is a treasure for anyone who wants to touch history and culture. Each section offers the opportunity to witness this unique heritage up close.

KBR Museum: The Gateway to History

One of the most striking features of the Royal Library of Belgium (KBR) is the KBR Museum, which displays manuscripts from the Burgundian period and the cultural riches of the period. Opened in 2020, this museum transports visitors to the art, literature and history-filled atmosphere of 15th-century Europe.

Location and Design of the Museum

• Location: The museum is located in the restored section of the Royal Library building. Nassau Chapel It is located in.
• design: It has a modern exhibition layout while preserving the medieval atmosphere. The historical texture of the chapel has been carefully restored to reflect the magnificent world of the Dukes of Burgundy.

Exhibition: In Search of the Burgundian Period

Library of the Dukes of Burgundy

The main exhibition of the museum, Library of the Dukes of Burgundy It is dedicated to the collection of the (Bibliothèque des ducs de Bourgogne), which contained the most prestigious literary and artistic works of Europe in the 15th century.

• Featured Manuscripts:
  • Chronicles of Hainaut (Chroniques de Hainaut): A manuscript commissioned by Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy. This work reveals the political and cultural events of the period.
  • Hour Books: It contains the finest examples of Flemish miniature art, decorated with religious texts.
  • Artists: Illuminations by Rogier van der Weyden, Simon Marmion and other Flemish masters make the museum unique.

Objects Supporting Historical Context

In addition to the manuscripts, other objects on display to help understand the life and culture of the period:

• Paintings and Sculptures: Artworks reflecting the exquisite detail of the Flemish Renaissance.
• Weapons and Armor: Items representing the military power of the Dukes of Burgundy.
• Everyday Objects: Jewellery, kitchenware and textiles belonging to the nobility of the period.

Interesting Miniatures

The works representing the pinnacle of miniature art fascinate visitors:

• Detailed city views.
• Scenes depicting historical scenes.
• Mythological and religious stories.

Experiences Awaiting Visitors

Interactive Technologies

The KBR Museum uses modern technologies to offer visitors the opportunity to experience the past more closely.

• Digital Miniature Display: Visitors can examine the manuscripts in detail on high-resolution screens.
• Multimedia Guides: Audio and visual guides that provide more information about the historical context.

Training and Workshops

The museum organizes special events for history and art enthusiasts:

• Workshops teaching miniature making.
• Seminars and exhibition tours on medieval history.

Featured Works of the Museum

Museum Tours and Special Visits

The KBR Museum organizes special tours for groups and researchers as well as individual visitors.

• Guided Tours: Expert guides in their field provide detailed information about the Burgundian Period and the history of the works.
• Special Collection Access: Researchers may have the opportunity to examine more works by obtaining prior permission.

Importance of KBR Museum

The KBR Museum sheds light on European history by preserving the cultural, artistic and political heritage of the Burgundian Period.

• Cultural Memory: These works open a window into not only Belgium's but also Europe's past.
• Research Center: It is a unique resource for academics and historians.
• Experience Art and History: Visitors have the opportunity to explore history and art together.

Practical information

Why Visit the KBR Museum?

The KBR Museum is not only an exhibition space, but also a journey through history and art.

• See unique artifacts from the Burgundian Period.
• To understand and feel the cultural heritage of Europe.
• Experiencing the harmony of modern and historical architecture.

To open the doors of history on your Brussels trip KBR MuseumDon't forget to visit!

Librarium: History of Books

One of the most interesting areas of the Belgian Royal Library Library, is a unique exhibition dedicated to the history of books. Offering a journey through time from the first emergence of writing to today's digital publishing, Librarium offers a unique experience for both book lovers and culture enthusiasts.

What is Librarium?

Librarium is an exhibition consisting of six thematic sections showcasing the production of books, the evolution of writing, and the historical development of written culture. Each section focuses on a different period or concept, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the social, artistic, and cultural contexts of written works.

• Location: It is located in a special part of the Royal Library of Belgium building.
• Goal: To understand the impact of writing on humanity by shedding light on the history of books and written culture.

Thematic Halls of the Librarium

The Birth of Writing

In this hall, the historical development of writing since its first appearance is discussed.

• Content: Clay tablets, papyrus scrolls and manuscripts from ancient times.
• Notable Works: Sumerian tablets and papyrus fragments from ancient Egypt.
• Thematic Emphasis: The invention of writing is an effort to make communication and information permanent.

The Relationship Between Book and Image

A space that reveals that books are not only carriers of information but also works of art.

• Content: Miniature manuscripts, decorated bindings, and illuminated texts.
• Art and Technology: The combination of images, graphics and typography with written text.

First Edition Books: The Birth of the Printing Press

Focusing on the revolution that began with the invention of the printing press, this section describes a groundbreaking period in the production and distribution of books.

• Content: Early books (incunabula) produced with Johannes Gutenberg's printing technology.
• Notable Works: First edition books and examples of early printing from different parts of Europe.

Book Collecting and Bibliophilia

This section focuses on the history of book collecting and the passions of bibliophiles.

• Content: Stories about special collections, manuscripts and rare works.
• Thematic Emphasis: The evolution of collecting from the library of the Dukes of Burgundy to the present day.

Digital Publishing and Modern Books

The part of book history that has been carried into the modern era is discussed together with the process of digitalization and the emergence of e-books.

• Content: Current technologies and the effects of digital publishing.
• Thematic Emphasis: The transformation of books in knowledge sharing.

Special Exhibition Area: Changing Collections

This section aims to attract visitors again and again with ever-changing themes.

• Content: Exhibitions that change every three months, thematic rooms and collections focusing on specific periods.
• Past Exhibitions: Exhibitions focusing on important figures such as Henry van de Velde and Émile Verhaeren.

Featured Collections and Works

Interactive Experiences and Education

The Librarium is designed not only as an exhibition, but also as a space where visitors can interact with the history of the book.

Multimedia Applications

• Touch Screens: Visitors can examine the manuscripts in digital format.
• Holographic Displays: Revives ancient writing techniques and book production.

Workshops and Training Programs

• Ancient Writing Techniques: Workshops where you can experience calligraphy and manuscript making.
• Printing Workshop: Opportunity to learn about ancient printing methods.
• Training Programs: History and book themed programs for schools and academic groups.

Importance of Librarium

The Librarium is not just an exhibition, but a space that celebrates the importance of written culture in human history.

• Understanding History: A unique opportunity to understand the evolution of writing and the role of books in our cultural heritage.
• Artistic Wealth: To discover works where books meet visual arts and craftsmanship.
• Education and Research: A valuable resource for historians, artists and students.

Visit Information and Practical Details

Why Visit Librarium?

The Librarium is the perfect space to deepen your interest in written culture and the history of the book.

• Discover that books are not just carriers of information, but also works of art.
• Embark on a journey to understand the transformative impact of writing and books on human history.
• Experience a fascinating fusion of modern and ancient times.

The Librarium is a must-see on your trip to Brussels and will leave you amazed by the history of books!

Heaven For Music Lovers

KBR's Department of Music, sheds light on the musical history of Belgium.

• Collections:
  • More than 100.000 audio recordings
  • Manuscripts of Johann Sebastian Bach
  • Jazz collections by Marc Danval and Eric Mathot

Visit Information

Why Should You Visit?

• Date: Rare works from the 15th century.
• Art: World famous prints and drawings.
• Culture: An excellent opportunity to discover the cultural heritage of Belgium.

On your trip to Brussels, the Royal Library of Belgium will not only be a stop, but a time machine that takes you back to the past. Don't forget to add it to your plans!

The Belgian Royal Library (KBR) is a fascinating stop for anyone wishing to discover the historical and cultural riches of Brussels. Offering a wide range of works, from the manuscripts of the Dukes of Burgundy to modern digital collections, the KBR is not just a library, it is also a journey through time. This unique space where art, history and knowledge meet, Places to Visit in Brussels It deserves to be at the top of your list.

After a unique cultural experience, be sure to take the Grand-Place, Atomium and Art Nouveau routes to discover other beauties of Brussels!