The Museum Dr. Guislain is a unique museum in Ghent, Belgium, that explores the history and culture of psychiatry and mental health. It is located in the former psychiatric hospital of Dr. Joseph Guislain, who was one of the first to treat mentally ill people with dignity and respect. The museum has a permanent collection that illustrates the evolution of psychiatry, from the ancient times to the present day, as well as temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary art and social issues related to mental health.
The ticket price for the Museum Dr Guislain is 10 euros for adults, 8 euros for students and seniors, and free for children under 12 years old. There are also reduced prices for groups and school visits.
The Museum Dr Guislain is open from Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
The Museum Dr Guislain is easily accessible by public transport, as it is situated near the Dampoort train station and several bus stops. You can also reach the museum by bike or by car, as there is a parking lot nearby. The museum is about 2 km away from the city center of Ghent, which is a beautiful medieval city with many attractions and landmarks to visit.
The Museum Dr Guislain offers a variety of things to see and do, depending on your interests and preferences. You can explore the permanent collection, which covers topics such as madness and art, asylum architecture, electroshock therapy, lobotomy, hysteria, and more. You can also enjoy the temporary exhibitions, which change regularly and feature works by local and international artists who deal with themes such as identity, trauma, stigma, creativity, and resilience. You can also participate in guided tours, workshops, lectures, and events that are organized by the museum throughout the year.
Some tips for visiting the Museum Dr Guislain are: plan your visit ahead of time by checking the website for the current exhibitions and activities; book your tickets online to avoid queues; wear comfortable shoes and clothes; bring a bottle of water and a snack; respect the rules of the museum, such as no photography, no touching the exhibits, no smoking, no pets; and be open-minded and respectful of the diversity of perspectives and experiences that are presented in the museum.
The Museum Dr. Guislain is a fascinating and educational place that invites you to reflect on the complex and often misunderstood topic of mental health. It is a place where you can learn about the past, present, and future of psychiatry, as well as discover inspiring stories and artworks by people who have lived with mental illness or have challenged the norms of society. It is a place where you can challenge your own assumptions and prejudices, and where you can celebrate the diversity and richness of human experience.
