A new comic book, 'De koningen der Belgen' ('The Kings of the Belgians'), explores Belgian history through the lives of its seven monarchs, intertwining their personalities with key moments since the country’s independence in 1830.
Spanning approximately 80 pages, the comic covers the reigns of kings from Leopold I to Philippe. It will be published in Dutch on 2 October by Le Lombard.
The story was penned by Belgian author Arnaud de la Croix with the assistance of French writer Jean-Philippe Thivet, while the artwork is by Spanish illustrator Vicente Cifuentes Martinez.
Each king is featured in a separate chapter, which focuses on specific themes rather than being a chronological account. For example, King Albert I’s story spotlights his passion for mountaineering, culminating in his fatal fall in Marche-les-Dames in 1934. The chapter on King Albert II begins with the infamous RTBF broadcast in 2006, 'Bye Bye Belgium,' a fictional report about the country’s division. This event serves as a starting point to discuss Albert’s and Philippe’s roles in Belgium’s challenging government formations in recent years.
Following each chapter, there is a two-page spread (not in comic format) highlighting major events of the period, the royal residences, and a prominent figure, often a politician.
“These added pages are essential,” says Gauthier Van Meerbeeck, publishing director at Le Lombard. “The stories wouldn’t feel complete without them. They provide balance, ensuring no critical moments are overlooked, even the more difficult ones. We address sensitive issues with respect.”
The comic does not shy away from controversial topics, including King Leopold II’s colonisation of Congo—marked by contrasting perspectives as both a “builder king” and a “murderous king.” It also covers the post-World War II abdication of King Leopold III amid the “royal question” crisis, as well as Princess Delphine, the illegitimate daughter of King Albert II.
The final section looks to the future, featuring Princess Elisabeth, the eldest daughter of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, who is poised to become Belgium’s first female monarch.
The comic targets all Belgians interested in their country’s history and is also pitched as a teaching tool for educators looking to engage students with Belgian history.
The French-language edition will be released on 5 September, with the Dutch-language version following in early October.
