Father Damien of Molokai Is one of the most influential Belgians of all time. He was born on January 3, 1840, as Jozef De Veuster in the small community of Ninde, near the town of Tremelo in Belgium. Later he became better known as Father Damien, a father of the Congregation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary (also called "Picpuspaters") for whom he was a missionary. He became world-famous for his work and care for leprosy patients. He died on the island of Molokai on April 15, 1889. Later Father Damien became the patron saint for lepers and AIDS patients. His feast day is celebrated on May 10th.
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| Picture courtesy of the Damiaan Museum |
Today, his birth house is the setting for the Damiaan Museum. His family house was thoroughly renovated and expanded into an interactive and contemporary experience center that not only focuses on the past but also reflects on the current situation and the social significance of Damien's figure and his legacy. The new Damian Museum focuses on accessibility, multilingualism, and experiential focus. The new experience center wants to inform, inspire, sensitize and engage.
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| Picture courtesy of the Damiaan Museum |
The Damiaan Museum is divided into six different zones for the visitor. Via objects, sound recordings, and visual material you step into the life story of Father Damien. You literally get the feeling you can write his story yourself, alongside authentic Damien objects, such as his own carved altar and numerous personal items and pictures.
In the museum, you can also admire some paintings by Edward Clifford These works of art are on the Flemish Top-list of paintings. You can find more information and details about the museum on its official website here