Autoworld | Brussels

Autoworld in Brussels is a major automobile museum housed in the south hall of the historic Cinquantenaire Park complex. The imposing hall, also known as the Palais Mondial, was designed in 1880 by Gédéon Bordiau to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence. The building stands out for its impressive metal construction, large glass façades, and a 120-meter-long hall with a high ridge, which was originally used for world's fairs and trade shows. Auto shows have been held here since 1902, which only underscores its present-day use as a showcase for vehicles. The museum sits right next to the Art & History Museum and the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History.

The collection includes more than 300 vehicles, including cars and motorcycles, tracing the history of the automobile industry from the 19th century to the present day. The museum was founded in 1986 by the entrepreneur Charly De Pauw and the collector Ghislain Mahy, whose private collection formed its core. On a themed tour, you can experience different eras, from early Minervas and historic horse-drawn carriages to modern sports cars and supercars. Highlights include the Belgian zone with local marques, the royal section with limousines of the Belgian royal family, and areas devoted to motorsport, design, and even comic characters such as Michel Vaillant and Tintin.

In addition to the permanent exhibition, Autoworld regularly organizes special exhibitions that shed light on various aspects of automotive history. The museum has grown into one of Europe's leading automobile museums and, besides sightseeing, offers educational programs, guided tours, and classic car shows. The combination of historic architecture and a diverse, carefully curated collection makes this a fascinating destination for technology enthusiasts and history buffs alike.