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Places of interest #7 in Blankenberge

Albert Einstein - Johnny Werkbrouck

4.5 · 708 reviews
Quiet, historical, and reflective.
Albert Einstein - Johnny Werkbrouck, Pr. Astridlaan 25B, 8421 De Haan, Belgium
Interesting facts
1

Albert Einstein resided in De Haan for six months in 1933 after deciding not to return to Germany following Hitler's rise to power.

2

The sculptor, Johnny Werkbrouck, is known for his work in bronze, often focusing on figures of cultural and historical significance.

3

De Haan was chosen by Einstein partly for its tranquility, which allowed him to continue his theoretical work while remaining in contact with the international community.

4

The statue is positioned near the town center, reflecting the route Einstein would have taken while walking to the beach or the local tram station.

Overview

This site features a bronze sculpture honoring Albert Einstein, located in the coastal town of De Haan, Belgium. The statue commemorates the physicist's temporary residence in the town during the summer of 1933 following his flight from Nazi Germany. Einstein stayed at the Hotel Bellevue, which is located in close proximity to the sculpture. The artwork was created by Belgian sculptor Johnny Werkbrouck to commemorate this historical connection between the Nobel laureate and the municipality. The statue depicts Einstein in a relaxed, seated pose that reflects his time spent enjoying the local seaside atmosphere. It stands as a focal point for visitors interested in the history of scientific figures in the Belgian coastal region.

Photo spot

Directly from the front, capturing the bronze figure with the historic De Haan town architecture in the background.

Insider tips

Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Belle Époque district to view the preserved 19th-century architecture.

Visit the nearby former Hotel Bellevue, which still maintains its historical facade from when Einstein stayed there.

Combine this short visit with a stroll along the nearby De Haan beach promenade.

What to avoid

Do not confuse this statue with other public art pieces in the wider Blankenberge or Ostend regions.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
15-30 minutes
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn to enjoy the mild coastal weather without the high-season summer crowds.
Address
Albert Einstein - Johnny Werkbrouck, Pr. Astridlaan 25B, 8421 De Haan, Belgium
51.277, 3.037
Get directions
Details
SculptorJohnny Werkbrouck
Historical ContextEinstein's 1933 refuge

Frequently asked

Plan for about 15-30 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn to enjoy the mild coastal weather without the high-season summer crowds..

Directly from the front, capturing the bronze figure with the historic De Haan town architecture in the background.

Close by you'll find Parkdomein La Potinière, Duinbossen, Wenduine Spioenkop.