Stepping back into the 19th century

As you may know by now, Ghent is one of my favorite Belgian cities so when my friend compared one of the museums to a place with Brontë vibes, I knew I needed to go. Anything that’ll take me back to the 19th century for a day!

Even more so because last week, I spent two days enthralled with the book Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. I couldn’t put it down and found it so unique and well-written. I have to admit, it instantly became my favorite Brontë sister novel!

Design Museum

Without further ado, this is the museum that basically transported us to the 18th and 19th century. It also has a new wing with a modern collection but we preferred to stay in the past. We found every corner of this part so inspiring!

This collection is situated in the Hotel de Coninck, dating back to the 18th century. In 1922 the museum was moved to this space and later on, expanded with the aforementioned modern wing.

They put a funny twist by adding one or two pieces of modern furniture in these old rooms and surprisingly enough, it works.

Sometimes I was so lost in the 18th-century pieces that I didn’t even notice a modern bed or a modern chair right next to it. The overall atmosphere makes you feel like you traveled back in time!

The House of Alijn

This museum was our second stop and it was unexpectedly amusing! Basically, it portrays how the everyday life of the 20th century evolved throughout the decades.

Vintage confectionery stores, early-century pharmacies, and barber shops, followed by rooms filled with all kinds of traditions. At the end of the tour, you have rooms decorated in the style of the 60s, 70s, and 80s and you can sit on the furniture for a vintage photo!