Dr. Guislain Museum
Explore the history of psychiatric care and unique art in Belgium's first mental asylum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Dr. Guislain Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the history of psychiatric care and unique art in Belgium's first mental asylum.
"A fascinating journey through the history of modern day psychiatric care based on a model of compassion."
Ghent City Card Value
Covered by the Ghent City Card for multi-attraction visits. :ticket:
Tram Access is Easy
Tram stops right outside, making it super accessible. :bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
History of Psychiatry Collection
Explore ancient treatments to modern psychotropic drugs, showcasing humane care.
Photographs of Mental Disorders
A poignant collection of images dating back to 1860, offering a visual history.
Art by Self-Taught Artists
Discover paintings and sculptures by international artists with unique perspectives.
The 'Narnia-like' Entrance
Enter through a magical closet into a room filled with antique travel-themed items.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Deeper Dive
Embrace the Unexpected
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Recommendations for a 5th-anniversary visit
Ghent City Card Value
Covered by the Ghent City Card for multi-attraction visits. :ticket:
Tram Access is Easy
Tram stops right outside, making it super accessible. :bus:
Obscure/quirky/cool things to see and do in Ghent
Spooky things to do
Open Mind for Art
Art exhibits can be polarizing; approach with an open mind. :art:
Focus on History
Prioritize permanent collections for medical history insights. :medical_symbol:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ghent City Card Value
Covered by the Ghent City Card for multi-attraction visits. :ticket:
Tram Access is Easy
Tram stops right outside, making it super accessible. :bus:
Open Mind for Art
Art exhibits can be polarizing; approach with an open mind. :art:
Focus on History
Prioritize permanent collections for medical history insights. :medical_symbol:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Dr. Guislain Museum are highly polarized, with visitors either giving it one or five stars. Many praise the beautiful building and the historical insights into psychiatric care, particularly Dr. Guislain's compassionate approach. However, some find the art installations disconnected from the medical history theme, leading to a divided experience.
"I read the reviews for this museum, which were very divided with one star or five star ratings. So I hoped it was more five-star. The building was beautiful and you could still see some of the original features from when it was an institution. But, I didn't enjoy the art installations, many of which I couldn't relate back to mental health at all. Working in this field, I appreciated the small number of exhibits based on the care of people with mental health needs but in all honesty, unless art is your thing, I wouldn't visit if you are wanting a medical history experience."
Heather Miller
"We had not expected to like this museum as much as we did.
You enter the museum through a wonderful closet (Narnia-like experience) in a beautiful room decorated with luggage, maps, bottles, and more antique items. The art and journals shown were personal and intimate and both of the expositions that were on display were informative and interesting.
Put this museum on your to-do list!"
Sophie
"The Guislain Museum in Ghent opened in 1986 and is dedicated to educating the public about psychiatric care, a bold agenda for a museum located inside a psychiatric institution. Dr. Guislain championed the rights of the mentally ill and devised plans for dignified and humane treatment in 1828, when patients were still chained.
The museum hosts exhibitions of work by mentally ill people (for example, the second photo shows a mentally ill person trying to make a map depicting Central America, part of South America, and Cuba). There are also exhibitions that examine how we connect to each other as humans.
In addition to the temporary exhibitions, the museum houses three permanent collections: (1) a comprehensive exhibition on the history of psychiatry, (2) a catalogue of photographs of people with mental disorders dating back to 1860, and (3) a collection of foreign artists. The history of psychiatry records ancient treatment, from the ancient Greeks and the Eastern peoples (from the trepanation tools of Hippocrates to exorcisms), to the present era of psychotropic drugs. The museum also has a small collection of medical models related to psychiatry.
The photo collection is based on photographs taken at the institution since the middle of the last century. Finally, the collection of foreign artists contains paintings and sculptures by self-taught artists from all over the world.
Special mention deserves a section of the museum where reference is made to female hysteria and the means of dealing with it. These are the last two photos of the post. Those who read them were truly surprised and burst out laughing."
Dimitris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is easily accessible by tram, with a stop located directly in front of the entrance. This makes it a convenient option for visitors using public transportation in Ghent.
Information on specific parking availability can be limited. It's generally recommended to utilize public transport, especially the tram, due to its direct access.
Depending on your starting point in Ghent, walking might be an option. However, the tram is a highly recommended and efficient way to reach the museum.
Yes, the Dr. Guislain Museum can be a great addition to a day trip from Brussels, easily reachable by train to Ghent and then a short tram ride.
From Ghent's main train station (Gent-Sint-Pieters), take a tram directly to the Dr. Guislain Museum. It's a straightforward and convenient journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary. It's advisable to check the official museum website for the most current ticket information.
Yes, the Dr. Guislain Museum is often covered by the Ghent City Card, offering good value if you plan to visit multiple attractions. :ticket:
Opening hours can change seasonally. Always consult the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on days and times of operation.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons. Check the museum's website for online booking options.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Inquire directly with the museum or check their website for eligibility and details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum explores the history of psychiatric care and features art collections, including works by individuals with mental health conditions and self-taught artists. It's housed in Belgium's first mental asylum.
Key attractions include the permanent exhibition on the history of psychiatry, a collection of historical photographs, and diverse art exhibitions. The unique 'Narnia-like' entrance is also a memorable feature.
The museum's themes can be sensitive. While some exhibits might be engaging, parental discretion is advised regarding the historical and artistic content.
A typical visit can last between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the historical exhibits and art installations.
Information on guided tours can be found on the museum's official website. They often provide deeper insights into the collections and history.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted in permanent exhibition areas, but check for specific restrictions in temporary exhibitions or sensitive displays.
The unique 'Narnia-like' entrance and the historical architecture of the former asylum offer interesting photographic opportunities. The art installations themselves can also be visually striking.
The entrance hall with its antique items and the exterior of the historic building are popular spots. Some of the art installations may also be visually compelling.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around cultural institutions. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial due to the indoor setting. A versatile lens would also be useful for capturing both architectural details and art. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the more visually engaging art pieces or the unique architectural elements of the building if visiting with children. It's recommended to preview the museum's content online or speak with staff upon arrival to gauge suitability for your family's specific needs and sensitivities.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the historical photograph collection, which offers a rare visual glimpse into the lives of individuals who were institutionalized. The museum's setting within Belgium's first mental asylum adds an authentic layer to the historical narrative, making it a deeply immersive experience for any history enthusiast.
🎨 Art Lovers
While the art is a significant part of the museum, be aware that some visitors find it can diverge from the core historical theme. However, for those open to diverse artistic expressions and the stories behind them, the art exhibits can be incredibly moving and thought-provoking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Dr. Guislain
Visitors can explore exhibits detailing Dr. Guislain's philosophy and the historical context of his work. This includes insights into ancient treatments, the development of asylums, and the eventual shift towards more therapeutic interventions. The museum aims to educate the public about this crucial period in medical history, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in mental healthcare.
Art as a Window into the Mind
While some visitors find the art installations to be a powerful complement to the historical narrative, others feel they can sometimes overshadow the medical history aspect. The museum's approach is to present a multifaceted view, where art serves as a form of communication and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Exploring these artistic expressions can be a thought-provoking experience, encouraging visitors to consider the diverse ways individuals process and express their inner worlds.
Navigating the Collections
In addition to these core historical elements, the museum also features a collection of art by foreign artists, including paintings and sculptures by self-taught creators from around the globe. Special attention is often given to exhibits that explore historical treatments for conditions like female hysteria, which some visitors find surprisingly humorous in retrospect. The museum also houses a small collection of psychiatric medical models.
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