A Journey Through Time: The Enchanting World of Trains

As a museum curator with a penchant for interactive exhibits, I am always on the lookout for experiences that blend history with engagement, especially those that captivate both adults and children alike. Our recent family trip to Schaerbeek, Belgium, led us to the Train World—a place that promised not just a museum visit, but an opera of trains. The allure of exploring the Belgian railway history, coupled with a special exhibition on the artist Paul Delvaux, was irresistible.

Delvaux’s Dreamlike Trains

Upon entering Train World, we were immediately drawn into the temporary exhibition dedicated to Paul Delvaux, aptly titled “The Man Who Loved Trains.” Delvaux’s paintings, known for their mysterious and ethereal quality, found a perfect home amidst the dimly lit and immersive environment of Train World. The exhibition was thoughtfully curated, with a leaflet guiding us through the paintings and their locations within the museum. An informative film on Delvaux provided deeper insights into his fascination with trains and the recurring motifs of female figures in his work.

The exhibition was a visual feast, and it was fascinating to see how Delvaux’s art intertwined with the historical backdrop of the museum. The eerie yet captivating atmosphere of his paintings was enhanced by the setting, making it a memorable experience for both my wife and me, as well as our children, who were intrigued by the surreal imagery.

Rediscovering Train World

While the Delvaux exhibition was a highlight, it was also an opportunity to revisit the rest of Train World. The museum is a treasure trove of railway history, and we began our exploration in the former ticket hall, which now houses an exhibition of night train posters. Interestingly, most of these posters were in Dutch, adding a unique cultural touch to the display.

The museum’s collection of steam engines is nothing short of impressive. We marveled at the grandeur of these iron giants, each telling its own story of a bygone era. The postal carriage, with its tales of letters and parcels traversing the country, was a hit with the kids, who loved peeking through the windows of luxury carriages and royal trains. The everyday objects, such as floor clocks, letter boxes, and railway ticket printing machines, held a poetic charm that resonated with us all.

A Safe and Enjoyable Visit

In these times of heightened health awareness, Train World had implemented several measures to ensure a safe visit. Visitor flows were controlled, and face masks were mandatory, with hand sanitizers available throughout the museum. These precautions allowed us to enjoy our visit without any concerns, and social distancing was easily maintained.

Our day at Train World was a delightful blend of art, history, and family fun. It was a reminder of the timeless allure of trains and the stories they carry. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, an art lover, or a family looking for an engaging day out, Train World offers an experience that is both educational and enchanting. We left with a deeper appreciation for the world of trains and a newfound admiration for Delvaux’s artistic vision.