Beneath the cobblestones of Brussels, a martial tradition has survived the passage of centuries. Far from the usual tourist circuits, the art of precision shooting is practiced in the shadow of heavy brick vaults. Forget traditional bar darts: here, the weapon of choice requires calm, strength, and concentration.
In the lair of the Grand Serment Royal de Saint-Georges
Just a few meters from the Royal Palace, a discreet door leads to the city’s underground passages. It is in this unusual hideaway that the Grand Serment Royal et de Saint-Georges des Arbalétriers de Bruxelles meets. This institution preserves an impressive collection of ancient weapons, shields, and coats of arms.
To explore this arsenal, the community museum is open to the public every Tuesday afternoon. Admission is just 2 euros, and volunteer members are on hand to welcome visitors. These guardians of our heritage are happy to share stories about their craft and answer visitors’ questions.
Bow drawn and target in sight: a guided introduction
The experience goes beyond a simple display of relics. Visitors have the opportunity to truly get hands-on. On certain Thursday evenings, the guild organizes training sessions. The goal is to learn how to load the crossbow safely, control one’s breathing, and aim a shot at a cardboard target.
Registration for these introductory sessions can be done viathe association’s official website or by speaking directly with the team during weekly open hours. A tangible opportunity to test your dexterity in an atmosphere of genuine camaraderie, far from the hustle and bustle of the Belgian capital.
📍Address: Impasse du Borgendael – Place Royale, 7-9/bte 1 – 1000 Brussels
