M - Museum, an architectural and cultural achievement in Louvain

A large, Dutch-speaking city in Belgium’s Flemish region, Louvain was once known for its breweries, traditional homes known as « Béguinage », and universities. The city is doubling down on its rich heritage and revamping its cultural appeal with the creation of the M – Museum, a building designed by the architect Stéphane Beel and built atop the remnants of the 18th-century Collège de Savoie.

The M – Museum’s contribution to Louvain

In an impressive blend of modern and neo-classical architecture, the building, which includes a courtyard garden and rooftop deck, offers a range of cultural experiences that showcase both modern art and old masters under the same roof. Its collections now include 52 500 works ranging from the Middle Ages to the 19th century as well as a traditional overview of Belgian artists after 1945.

Grecian columns and avant-garde styling blend together to form a seamless whole along the building’s facade. © DR

In the terrace and courtyard, arty references are part and parcel of the overall effect. © DR

An exhibition on the Arenberg family

The museum offers a number of exhibitions year-round. « Power and Beauty », the current exhibition set to continue until 20 January 2019, features the paintings and engravings of the powerful Arenberg family. This exhibition introduces visitors to this powerful lineage, the family’s sumptuous lifestyle, and their taste for luxury and splendour.

The museum hosts a wide range of medieval masterpieces. © DR

The M - Museum also offers a number of Renaissance paintings. © DR