Hof der dingen - Souvenirs from the Sea – A Glimpse into Coastal Tourism

Tourism along the Belgian coast has a vibrant and colourful history. 

The earliest signs of coastal tourism date back to the second half of the 18th century, but tourism only really took off around the mid-19th century. Key transportation developments like the railway connections between Cologne–Brussels–Ostend, Bruges–Blankenberge, and the ferry service between Dover and Ostend made the Belgian coast more accessible than ever. 

Ostend quickly earned a stellar reputation across Europe as the perfect seaside escape — a place to leave all worries behind. Doctors frequently prescribed extended stays by the sea as a remedy for all sorts of diseases, praising the coastal air’s health benefits thanks to its high sodium content. A beachside stay as a cure for all that ails you? Yes, please! 

Tourists from all neighbouring countries and Great Britain flocked to the Belgian coast to enjoy its sandy dunes and seaside charm – though, back then, most came from privileged families. Naturally, the outbreak of both World Wars put a gigantic damper on the further development of tourism. It boomed in the 1950s, as more people could afford a car. 

The outbreak of both World Wars naturally brought the development of tourism to a halt. It wasn’t until the 1950s that tourism flourished once again, as car ownership became more affordable and travel more accessible. Suddenly, even Average Joe and Jane could afford a seaside holiday — or at least a day trip to the coast. 

Small shops began popping up everywhere, offering wealthier tourists a wide range of — often tacky — souvenirs to take home. One of the most popular trinkets? These charming little shellcovered keepsakes flew off the shelves. 

A big thank-you to the city of Middelkerke for lending us this particular piece.