Maagdenhuismuseum, Gothic art museum in Lange Gasthuisstraat, Belgium.
The Maagdenhuismuseum is an art museum in a Gothic building in Antwerp that displays paintings and historical objects. The structure features light-colored stone walls decorated with carved ornamental details that reflect its architectural character.
The building was founded in 1552 as an orphanage for young girls and served this purpose for over 300 years. In the 1880s it was converted into a museum to preserve the stories of its residents.
The museum displays works by local artists and preserves objects from when the building served as an orphanage. The exhibition gives a sense of how residents lived and what mattered in their daily routines.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday with a midday break, while remaining closed on Mondays and holidays. Visitors should check ahead to see if special events or exhibition changes are planned, as these may affect opening times.
The museum preserves everyday objects that belonged to the orphan children, such as bowls, clothing, and name tags. These intimate items offer an unexpected view into how children lived in earlier centuries.
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