Model Trains

Overview

Within the expansive halls of Train World in Brussels, Belgium, visitors encounter more than just full-sized locomotives; a captivating sub-spot dedicated to model trains offers a detailed miniature perspective on railway history and engineering. This dedicated area, while not always a standalone section, interweaves with the larger exhibits, providing an intimate look at the evolution of rail transport through intricately crafted models. It complements the awe-inspiring real engines, inviting a closer appreciation of design and historical significance on a smaller scale.

Train World itself, the official museum of the National Railway Company of Belgium (NMBS/SNCB), opened in September 2015 within the beautifully preserved Schaerbeek railway station and an adjoining modern complex. The museum covers over 8,000 square metres, displaying 22 locomotives and 1,200 other objects, many of which contribute to the rich narrative explored through its model train collections. The scenography, designed by comic book artist François Schuiten, aims to create an immersive experience, a 'train opera' as it's sometimes called, extending to its smaller exhibits like the model trains.

History & Cultural Background

The presence of model trains in Train World is deeply rooted in Belgium's significant railway heritage. Belgium was a pioneer in continental European rail travel, inaugurating its first passenger railway line in 1835. This rich history naturally led to a strong culture of railway preservation and, by extension, model railroading.

A notable highlight in Train World's model collection is the Legrand collection. Since July 2019, the King Baudouin Foundation has entrusted NMBS/SNCB with this valuable ensemble, which includes approximately 30 exquisite model engines, carriages, and goods wagons. This collection represents decades of meticulous craftsmanship and historical accuracy, providing a tangible link to the past. The models often mirror the groundbreaking real-life locomotives that once traversed Belgian landscapes, such as the 'Pays de Waes' steam locomotive from 1845, the oldest preserved locomotive in continental Europe, elements of which might be reflected in the model displays.

What Makes It Special

What sets the model train exhibits apart in Train World is their blend of artistic precision and historical documentation. Unlike simply showcasing miniature versions, these models often tell stories of engineering innovation and design evolution. The museum's interactive approach extends to these smaller exhibits, with some displays presenting models in glass cases that allow for detailed inspection.

Furthermore, the museum occasionally hosts special 'Miniatuurtreinenexpo' events, bringing together enthusiasts and showcasing diverse miniature train layouts. One such permanent installation is the 'Minimaforma', a fictional model railway layout situated in the attic of the signalman's house. Designed and built by Evan Daes and Patrick Daelemans, in collaboration with the museum's scenographer François Schuiten, this H0 scale layout features two independent circuits running Belgian miniature trains. The backgrounds, painted by Alexandre Obolensky, add an artistic dimension, creating an immersive diorama that captures the essence of Belgian railway operations.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Legrand collection itself carries a story of dedicated preservation. Its display at prestigious events like BRAFA (Brussels Art Fair) in 2020 highlights the collection's artistic and historical value, not just to railway enthusiasts but to a broader audience appreciating fine craftsmanship. These models, some of which reportedly worked for the first time in over 30 years during their BRAFA display, offer a rare glimpse into the operational mechanics of historical trains on a miniature scale.

The 'Minimaforma' model railway also offers a charming local detail. Situated within a reproduction of a signalman's house, it connects visitors to the daily life and infrastructure of Belgian railways. The careful recreation of landscapes and railway operations, even down to the day-night experience controlled by the museum's scenography, allows visitors to observe the intricate ballet of trains in a controlled, captivating environment. The fact that it features Belgian miniature trains adds a distinct local flavor to the exhibit.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, the model trains at Train World offer a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the grandeur of the full-sized locomotives. It's an opportunity to appreciate the fine details, the historical accuracy, and the sheer artistry involved in recreating complex machinery on a small scale. Children and adults alike can marvel at these intricate displays, which serve as educational tools, illustrating the principles of railway engineering and the evolution of train design in an accessible format. The interactive nature of Train World, which allows visitors to touch almost everything, often extends to a close viewing of these models, fostering a deeper engagement with Belgium's rich railway narrative.