Tintin—the brave young reporter who traveled the world solving mysteries and embarking on daring adventures—has captured hearts for almost a century. Created by Belgian artist Hergé, Tintin’s stories are not just comics; they’re cultural landmarks that have inspired readers of all ages.

As I stepped out of Brussels central station, my eyes caught a giant poster of Tintin and Snowy perched on top of a nearby building. It was as if they were welcoming me to their city. Curiosity piqued, I opened google maps and found that the Hergé Tintin Museum was just a train ride away. Intrigued by the chance to explore the legacy of one of my favorite childhood characters, I made a quick plan to visit the museum.

Tintin: The Making of a Legend

It’s hard to imagine that Tintin was first introduced in a children’s newspaper, Le Petit Vingtième, back in 1929. Georges Remi, known by his pen name Hergé, gave life to this iconic character, crafting stories filled with excitement, humor, and timeless charm. Over five decades, Tintin evolved from a simple comic strip to a cultural phenomenon. Accompanied by Snowy, his loyal fox terrier, and friends like Captain Haddock and Professor Calculus, Tintin traveled the globe, solving mysteries and exploring uncharted territories.

Hergé’s stories were meticulously researched, blending real-world settings and events with imaginative plots. But his work also reflected the attitudes of its time, which hasn’t been without controversy. Some early stories, like Tintin in the Congo, have been criticized for racial stereotypes and colonial undertones. Hergé later acknowledged these shortcomings and worked to address them in his later works. Despite these complexities, Tintin’s influence on storytelling and art remains undeniable, making his adventures beloved by generations.

Entering the Hergé Museum

When I arrived at the Hergé Museum, I was greeted by its striking modern design. The building, designed by architect Christian de Portzamparc, looks more like a futuristic art gallery than a traditional museum. Its clean lines and open spaces set the tone for what was to come—a carefully curated journey through the world of Tintin and his creator.

The museum is thoughtfully laid out, taking visitors through the different stages of Hergé’s career. Original sketches, comic panels, and life-sized models of characters and vehicles fill the exhibits. The attention to detail is astonishing, from the polished displays to the subtle background sounds that make you feel like you’re part of Tintin’s adventures.

The Caliber of Hergé’s Craft

What stood out most for me, was the incredible craftsmanship behind Tintin’s world. One exhibit showcased Hergé’s original sketches, each line precise and intentional. Seeing the early drafts of beloved characters like Captain Haddock and Professor Calculus gave me a new appreciation for how much thought went into their creation.

Another display focused on Hergé’s meticulous research. For each story, he studied maps, photographs, and historical texts to ensure the settings felt authentic. After all, we readers tend to appreciate what we can relate to the real world the most. Whether Tintin was exploring the pyramids in Cigars of the Pharaoh or trekking through Tibet, the landscapes and cultural details in the comics were astonishingly accurate. It’s no wonder Tintin’s adventures feel so vivid—they’re rooted in a blend of imagination and reality.

One of my favorite parts of the museum was the section featuring vehicles from Tintin’s adventures. The centerpiece was a model of the Carreidas Jet from Flight 714. It was as sleek and detailed as it appeared in the comics. However, as a die-hard fan of Tintin, the additional details about that aircraft in the cross section image above is exactly what I was expecting at the museum. I’m sure Tintin-fans can relate with me.

Tintin’s Legacy Beyond Comics

One thing the museum does exceptionally well is showing how Tintin’s influence extends far beyond comics. One exhibit highlighted Jacques Piccard, the Belgian scientist who named his deep-sea submersible after Tintin. It’s fascinating to see how a fictional character inspired real-world exploration.

The museum also explores Tintin’s impact on art, literature, and popular culture. From movies and merchandise to academic studies, Hergé’s creation has left an indelible mark on the world. Even the architecture of the museum reflects this legacy—it’s not just a building; it’s part of the story, blending creativity and functionality in a way that feels distinctly Hergé.

Experiencing the World of Tintin

What truly makes the Hergé Museum special is how immersive it feels. Walking through the exhibits, I was struck by the vivid colors of the comic panels, the crispness of the ink lines, and the tangible sense of adventure they conveyed.

In one corner, a towering model of Tintin’s Moon Rocket from Explorers on the Moon stood in all its glory. Its shiny red-and-white design seemed ready to take off, capturing the excitement of space exploration. The museum’s sound design added to the experience, with faint echoes of waves or engines in the background, depending on the exhibit.

Every detail in the museum is designed to make you feel like you’re stepping into Tintin’s world. From the life-sized models to the carefully curated lighting, it’s an experience that engages all your senses.

A Memorable Visit

Visiting the Hergé Tintin Museum was like rediscovering the joy of reading Tintin as a child. It’s a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the lasting impact of a character who has inspired generations.

As I left the museum, I couldn’t help but reflect on Tintin’s enduring appeal. Despite being a product of its time, the series continues to resonate because of its universal themes—adventure, curiosity, and a quest for truth. If you ever find yourself in Belgium, I highly recommend visiting the Hergé Museum. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering Tintin, it’s an experience that will leave you inspired and nostalgic for a time when every story felt like an adventure waiting to happen.

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