Brussels, Belgium | Summer 2019

The history of Brussels began in 300 AD, when the land was used by monks for crops and by explorers for trading. Today, it is the administrative capital of Europe, and second most multicultural city in the world with thriving businesses, such as NATO. For tourists, Brussels is mainly known for its UNESCO world heritage sites, and as a hub for Belgian beer and gastronomy. However, few people realize that Brussels is also the capital of European comics.

Brussels is the birthplace of many European comics and graphic novels and remains a center for literary inspiration. In Brussels, Tin Tin learned to walk on the moon, and the Smurfs fought the evil wizard, Gargamel. Famous writers all over the world have stayed in Brussels for character inspiration, critique, and publication. Victor Hugo lived in the Brussels Square for a time to gather inspiration for his works on paper, such as Les Miserables. He would often walk over with his pen to the Swan House Restaurant for a drink.

Brussels widely celebrates its comic culture today. The stories are seen everywhere in the city: painted on walls, exhibited in museums, and sold in shops. The Comic Book Museum curated a mural art walk to showcase some of the widespread projects that started in Brussels. Featured comic strips include The Adventures of Tin Tin, Thorgal and The Smurfs.

The murals have personal connections to the authors and their inspirations. One mural is painted along the street author Georges Remi, or Herge, once lived. He walked the streets of Brussels as a young boy, dreaming of one day flying in space and fighting crime. He later made his dreams a reality in The Adventures of Tin Tin.

These European comics paved the way for modern entertainment. Their Franco – Belgian influence brought us the hero Superman and the best selling book series, Game of Thrones. European comics continue to influence writers, spark creativity, and provide fun ways to consider the world around us.