Exhibition Halls

Overview

Within the historic and architecturally significant Schaerbeek railway station in Brussels, Belgium, lies the captivating Train World, a sprawling railway museum that serves as the official showcase for the National Railway Company of Belgium (NMBS/SNCB). Opened to the public in September 2015, Train World occupies over 8,000 square meters, presenting a remarkable collection of 22 locomotives and more than 1,200 other railway-related objects. The museum is not merely a static display; it is an immersive and interactive experience, inviting visitors to engage directly with Belgium's rich railway heritage, often allowing hands-on exploration of its exhibits.

The Exhibition Halls of Train World are designed to take visitors on a journey through the past, present, and future of Belgian railways. This unique experience is brought to life through a dramatic scenography conceived by the acclaimed Belgian comic book artist François Schuiten. His artistic vision transforms the museum into what has been described as a 'train opera', where cinematic lighting, soundscapes, and interactive elements create an engaging atmosphere for all ages.

History & Cultural Background

Belgium holds a pioneering place in railway history, being the first country on the European continent to establish a railway line. This momentous event occurred in 1835 with the inauguration of the Brussels to Mechelen route, a pivotal step in the spread of mechanized travel beyond Great Britain. The very location of Train World is steeped in this history, as it is housed within the beautifully preserved Schaerbeek railway station, a monumental structure built in the Flemish Neo-Renaissance style. This station, dating from the turn of the 19th century, was recognized for its historical importance and classified as a historic monument in 1994.

The museum ingeniously blends the grandeur of this historic station building with a modern industrial hangar, symbolizing the evolution of railway technology across centuries. This dual setting allows Train World to not only preserve invaluable artifacts but also to tell the comprehensive story of how railways shaped Belgium's industrial and social landscape, from the early steam engines to contemporary high-speed trains.

What Makes It Special

The Exhibition Halls at Train World are renowned for their extraordinary collection and unique presentation. A true crown jewel is the 'Pays du Waes' steam locomotive, dating from 1845, which proudly stands as the oldest preserved locomotive in continental Europe. Another iconic piece is the 'Type 12' streamlined steam locomotive, a marvel of engineering from 1939, famous for setting speed records.

Beyond the impressive locomotives, visitors can marvel at genuine royal carriages, offering a glimpse into the opulent travel experiences of Belgian royalty. The museum also showcases stainless steel TEE (Trans-Europ Express) cars, which were precursors to today's high-speed rail networks across Europe. Adding to the historical depth is an original 19th-century railway bridge and an authentic railway cottage, preserved in its original location and furnished to reflect life in 1958. Interactive elements, such as a railway simulator, further enhance the experience, allowing visitors to virtually drive a train through present-day Schaerbeek and even a speculative future Brussels.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Belgium's railway network holds the distinction of being the first national railway system in Europe. This led to dignitaries from other nations visiting Belgium to study and understand its operational success. An interesting detail of railway development is the historical necessity it created for synchronized clocks, as managing train schedules made uniform timekeeping essential for the first time. The 'Type 12' locomotive, with its remarkably futuristic design for its time, achieved a speed record of 165 km/h in 1939, connecting Brussels with the port city of Ostend in just 57 minutes. Some exhibits are displayed in unconventional and dramatic ways, such as a locomotive seemingly mounted at height, or another appearing to have crashed into a sandpit, adding to the museum's theatrical appeal.

One of the more engaging aspects for visitors is the opportunity to step inside the cabin of the Type 10 locomotive and even blow its whistle, a detail that particularly delights younger visitors. The former ticket hall of the historic Schaerbeek station has also been repurposed as a captivating exhibition space, integrating the very fabric of the building into the narrative of railway history.

Visitor Perspective

Train World offers an accessible and enriching experience for all visitors. The Exhibition Halls are fully accessible for individuals with limited mobility, ensuring everyone can explore the museum comfortably. The interactive displays, coupled with evocative soundscapes and dramatic lighting, create an atmosphere that engages visitors of every age group. Families, in particular, find the museum a stimulating destination, with numerous opportunities for children to engage hands-on with the exhibits, including exploring train cabins. The museum's ethos of allowing visitors to 'touch (almost) everything' truly sets it apart, fostering a memorable and educational experience. To fully appreciate the extensive collection and immersive displays, visitors are advised to allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours for their visit, though many find themselves easily spending up to four hours exploring the wonders within.