History frozen in time. From Royal Museum of Central Africa to the AfricaMuseum in Brussels.

The prestigious Royal Museum of Central Africa, located in a affluent suburb of Brussels, has probably been one of the most contested sites of memory, while at the same time demonstrating dramatically changing perspectives on the history of Belgian colonialism. Long after the end of colonial empire in 1960, it nevertheless remained until the turn of the millennium a museum 'frozen in time'. In 2018 it reopened under a new name AfricaMuseum, provoking new debates on history, memory and trauma resulting from Belgium's presence in Central Africa (1884-1960). The AfricaMuseum still has deep roots in colonial history. Established in late 19th century as a private initiative to showcase king Leopold II's 'civilizing mission' on the African continent, it slowly transformed into a modern institution more appropriately adapted to new postcolonial conditions. It nevertheless continues to spark debate, among historians as well as the wider public. This paper will look at both the achievements and persistent shortcomings of the thoroughly redesigned museum. It will look at the new forms of presentation, the broader mission statement of the museum, as well as the place of the museum in the broader public debate.