Renata from Brussels

About me: I was born and raised in Torino, in the North of Italy. Studying engineering allowed me to live in many different countries. When I came to the point where I needed to look for a job I decided I wanted to have another experience abroad. In 2003 the job offer came from Brussels, for a big multinational company. I wasn’t that excited, didn’t know Brussels very well, and I always thou...

Sep 17, 2025

Brussels & the comics Brussels

Tour of comics walls

"Belgium is the cradle of 20th century comics, called BD (Bande dessinée) in Brussels. What has always fascinated me is this open air tribute to comics."

Belgium is the cradle of 20th-century comics, called BD (Bande dessinée) in Brussels. It's an important part of the culture of this country; nowhere in the world can you find so many comics shops.

The Smurfs, Tintin, Lucky Luke are only a few of the comics created by Belgian authors who are famous all around the world.

Brussels has a "Museum de la Bande Dessinée", but what has always fascinated me is the open-air tribute to comics.

All through the city center you will see plenty (more than 30!) of murals showing your favourite characters. Some of them interact with Brussels landmarks (i.e. the Manneken Pis), and others perfectly fit the wall they are painted on (Boulevard d'Anspach, close to La Bourse). You will be surprised to see them around many corners in the center!

There are walking and biking guided tours which explain the history of Belgian comics while showing you many of the walls.

But if you prefer discovering these beauties yourself, then check this website. It makes it easier to understand which comics are where in town.

There are some which are so well integrated with the city that you do not even realize they are there.

Have a good walk, and let me know!