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Museum · Binche, Hainaut
International Carnaval and Mask Museum
Museum dedicated to carnival and masks, installed in the former Augustinian college next to Binche’s Grand-Place. It displays the costumes of the Gilles and a collection of masks and festival costumes from several continents.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About International Carnaval and Mask Museum
The Musée international du Carnaval et du Masque has been operating in Binche since 1975, in the building of the former 18th‑century Augustinian college. A bronze statue of a Gille marks the entrance, near the collegiate church and the communal park.
Part of the route is devoted to the Binche Carnival: the linen costumes in the colors of Belgium, the ostrich‑feather hats, the wax masks and the sound of the drums. That way, visitors who come outside the festival period can understand the ritual that fills the town on carnival days.
The rest of the collection, with thousands of items, brings together masks and costumes from festivities around the world, from Europe to the Americas, Africa and Oceania, from Central European winter figures to ritual masks. Temporary exhibitions explore themes linked to festivities and disguise.
The museum is a good starting point to discover Binche and pairs well with a walk through the Grand-Place and the walls.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one and a half hours.
Best time
At any time of year; outside carnival days the visit is quieter. The museum closes on some days of the week; check opening times before you go.
How to get there
On rue Saint‑Moustier, next to the collegiate church, a short walk from Binche station.
Tip
See the section dedicated to the Gilles before strolling the town: the details of the costumes help to understand the photos and the symbols scattered around the center.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about International Carnaval and Mask Museum
What is in the Carnival museum of Binche?
Costumes and objects from the Carnival of Binche, such as wax masks and the feathered hats of the Gilles, and a collection of masks and costumes from festivals in various countries.
Where is the Musée international du Carnaval et du Masque located?
In the center of Binche, on rue Saint-Moustier, near the collegiate church and the communal park.
How long does a visit to the museum take?
About an hour and a half, including temporary exhibitions.