MIM Information

The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) is a federal scientific institution and the 4th department of the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH). Located on the Mont des Arts in the heart of Brussels, it is surrounded by other iconic Belgian museums. The museum is renowned for its extraordinary collection, encompassing around 10,000 instruments. Visitors can embark on a musical journey through approximately 1,200 instruments on display. Using a multimedia guide, they can listen to the sound of each instrument and access additional information through videos and text. The museum was founded at the end of the 19th century, around the time the luxurious Old England department store opened on the Mont des Arts, where the MIM has been housed since June 2000. The Old England building quickly gained a strong reputation for its unique architecture: while the entrance showcases Art Nouveau design, it is harmoniously integrated into the neoclassical architectural ensemble of the Place Royale. Beyond this comprehensive panorama of ancient, modern, and traditional music, the MIM offers a wide range of activities for all audiences. Its mission includes conservation, restoration, scientific research, education, and public engagement. The MIM is a museum of a new generation: scientific yet accessible, dedicated to making the discovery of musical instruments an exciting and inspiring experience.