Exhibitions and activities
Vesalius Museum tells stories about life, from pregnancy and birth to illness, recovery and death.
What is there to see and do? Health is something we all share
Vesalius Museum is a museum about care and science. You will be encouraged to explore every aspect of care, from every perspective: historical, ethical, artistic, human and scientific.
Look through the eyes of a care provider, patient and scientist. Listen to personal stories that are hopeful, but sometimes also raw and confrontational.
Permanent exhibition Science and care in every phase of life
The permanent exhibition takes you through the phases of life, from pregnancy and birth to illness, recovery and death. The focus is on those who provide or receive care. We don’t shy away from difficult topics.
Every phase of life raises questions. What does a foetus experience in the womb? Why is ADHD recognized as a diagnosis today, when active children have always existed? Do teenagers mature later than they used to? What does it mean that one in three adults live with a chronic illness? And when is someone actually dead?
At Vesalius Museum, you'll discover what science knows about these topics - and what it doesn't. And what about your own ideas?
Save the date Opening weekend
On 12 and 13 December, we will be opening the doors of the new Vesalius Museum. Be among the very first to visit the museum and enjoy a special programme.
More details will follow soon.
Art and heritage A collection on care and science
Vesalius Museum brings together remarkable medical and scientific objects, from the 16th century to the present day. How have scientists and patients viewed care and science through the centuries?
Historical items from KU Leuven and UZ Leuven’s scientific collections are placed alongside contemporary scientific instruments and engage in dialogue with contemporary art, with work by artists such as Sarah Vanhee and Natalia Majchrzak.
Starting in 2027 Digital experiences
In the auditorium and multimedia studios of the museum, you’ll explore themes from the exhibition in greater depth. Healthcare professionals, companies, high school and college students can explore current topics and innovations in healthcare. Here, you are free to experiment, question, and ask questions. Because healthcare and science never stand still.
The digital experiences are only available by request and are always led by a guide.
Going out safely
In collaboration with the City of Leuven’s prevention service, the first programme will start in December. How can we look out for one another during a night out? Young people will explore safety, boundaries and how to deal with inappropriate behaviour in an immersive and interactive environment.
This programme is available to high school students only.
Bits & Bodies
Van wearables and data to AI: technology is increasingly shaping the way we view and look after our bodies. Would you let an algorithm help decide on a course of treatment? How could your body data help someone else after your death? And can AI improve your mental health?
Scheduled for launch in April 2027.