Located in the Provincial Estate of Bois des Rêves, the Water and Fountain Museum (MEF) is considered one of the smallest museums in Belgium, with a truly unique theme! Explore the history of access to water, discover disappeared professions, and understand why transporting water still remains a major challenge for humanity today.
The MEF was founded in 1989 by the passionate collector Jean-Pierre Courtois. Originally located near Lake Genval, the museum showcased a remarkable collection of historic objects linked to water, including fountains, pumps, wells, and washhouses. From the very beginning, its founder imagined more than a traditional museum: he wanted a place where visitors of all ages could explore, experiment, and discover through hands-on experiences.
In 2017, the museum moved to its new home in the Bois des Rêves, where Julie Marbaix took over its direction. After several years of transforming the space into a welcoming, interactive museum, the MEF officially reopened in 2024. Today, it continues its mission of making water and environmental science fun and accessible, welcoming around 6,000 schoolchildren each year, alongside families and curious visitors of all ages.