Jules Verne - The Secret Journey

During renovation work at Coloma Castle in Sint-Pieters-Leeuw, construction workers came across an old box hidden behind a wall. Inside the box was a yellowed manuscript that immediately caught the attention of historians: it was the handwriting of Jules Verne—an unknown manuscript by the master.

The title is Le Voyage à travers la Pensée – Journey Through the Mind, and it is a fascinating tale of an expedition into the human brain. In a tiny capsule, the protagonist travels through a labyrinth of memories, past flickering thoughts and electrical impulses that shine like stars in an endless universe.

But how did this manuscript end up in the castle? Research led to Antoine van der Dilft de Borghvliet, a former lord of the castle and enthusiastic scientist of the 19th century. Apparently, he had personally commissioned Jules Verne to write a story about the exploration of the mind – a topic that deeply preoccupied him.

The manuscript fell into oblivion until now – more than a century later – when it came to light again. Its contents form the basis for an exhibition that combines Verne‘s fantastic vision with contemporary positions in the visual arts. Paintings, drawings, objects, photography and site-specific installations are arranged thematically in the ten rooms and attic of Coloma Castle.

Jens Hanke