Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tournai

The Musée des Beaux-Arts is housed in a building shaped like a turtle, designed by architect Victor Horta. Throughout the structure, artistic details such as turtle-shaped door handles reinforce this distinctive design.

Construction of the museum began in 1912 but was interrupted by World War I. It finally reopened in 1928 after many years of halted work.

The two paintings by Édouard Manet housed here are the only works by this French artist permanently displayed in Belgium. They show how significant this place is for the country's art history.

The museum is open from Monday to Sunday, giving visitors time to move through the rooms. Mornings are best for enjoying the exhibitions at a leisurely pace.

This building is the only museum specifically designed by Victor Horta as a museum. It shows his artistic transition from Art Nouveau to Art Deco influences.

Location: Tournai

Inception: 1928

Architects: Victor Horta

Official opening: 1928

Architectural style: Art Nouveau architecture

Website: https://mba.tournai.be

GPS coordinates: 50.60278,3.38556

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:45