Beyond the chocolate and waffles, there’s a more profound and darker side to Belgium.
Join me as we explore Belgium's colonial history and its lasting impact on both Belgium and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This tour engages with the landmarks, monuments, and public spaces that evoke Belgium's - often violent - colonial past. As we walk through the city, we'll visit key sites like the Monument to Belgian Pioneers in the Congo, and Leopold II's statue, discussing the legacies of Belgian rule and the exploitation along with it. You’ll gain insight into how these historical events continue to shape Belgium's identity, as well as the effects still felt in the DRC today.
Through this tour, we’ll not only revisit the past but also delve into present-day conversations around decolonization, reparations and social justice.
Walk to the entrance of Park du Cinquantenaire facing Rond-Point Schuman
We will get an introduction to the history of Belgium in the Congo in front of the monument
We will talk about one of the main early Belgian figures in the Congo, and the rail network he was in charge of constructing.
We will discuss the Belgian monarch at the heart of Belgium's colonial past.
We will discuss the economics of exploitation at the historic Banque du Congo-Belge
We see the colonial office through which adminstration of the Congo Free State was managed.
We finish the tour at the spot named after independent Congo's first leader.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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