Flemish Tram and Bus Museum, Antwerp

The Flemish Tram and Bus Museum, nestled in the Berchem district of Antwerp, serves as a significant cultural repository, focusing on the historical evolution of public transport in the region. Housed in a tram shed from 1912 at Groenenhoek, which became a historical monument in 1996, the museum showcases an extensive collection of public vehicles, primarily trams and buses.

Supported by the transport company De Lijn, the museum's exhibits primarily feature collections from the Vicinal company, city tram companies of Antwerp and Ghent, and various subcontractors associated with Vicinal and De Lijn. Among its notable exhibits are the world's only surviving gyrobus and Antwerp's first electric tram, which started operations in 1899. The museum's vast collection, totaling 55 vehicles, includes the oldest dating back to 1873, showcasing a range from steam trams to the innovative gyrobus propelled by a flywheel.

Additionally, the museum offers a glimpse into the daily life and operations of historical public transport through its displays of uniforms, tickets, and other related artifacts. After a significant renovation that concluded with the museum reopening on June 16, 2019, it continues to engage the public not only with static displays but also through operational historic trams that occasionally traverse Antwerp's streets. These trams are also available for hire during special events, providing a unique, historical touch to celebrations.

The museum also houses archives and a library, accessible by appointment, further supporting research and education on public transport history. This combination of practical exhibits and scholarly resources makes the Flemish Tram and Bus Museum a key institution for both historical preservation and public education in Belgium.