The Stripstandbeelden Middelkerke, or Comic Book Statues of Middelkerke, is a collection of bronze statues that celebrate the rich tradition of Belgian comic art. These statues were installed over the years, from 1997 on, in conjunction with the annual Middelkerke Comic Festival (Stripfestival Middelkerke). Each year, a new statue was unveiled, adding to the growing parade of iconic characters along the seaside promenade.

Belgium is renowned for its comic book culture, and the statues in Middelkerke pay homage to both French-speaking and Dutch-speaking Belgian comics. From the mischievous antics of Spirou to the whimsical adventures of Marsupilami, these statues offer a nostalgic journey through the pages of beloved comic books.

The statues are strategically placed along a two-kilometer stretch of the Zeedijk promenade, parallel to the North Sea coastline. Most of the statues are positioned at the ends of streets that intersect with the promenade, creating an inviting path for visitors to follow. The distance between each statue ranges from 100 to 200 meters, allowing for a leisurely and enjoyable exploration.

The first two statues, unveiled in 1997, are located near the Epernayplein, a square named after Middelkerke's twin town, Épernay. These statues stand on either side of the square, welcoming visitors as they begin their journey. The subsequent statues are arranged chronologically along the promenade, with each new addition marking another chapter in the festival's history.

The statues themselves are crafted from bronze and mounted on stone pedestals. Each pedestal bears the name of the character it represents, with the names inscribed in Dutch, reflecting the region's language. This adds an educational element to the experience, allowing visitors to learn the Dutch names of these famous comic book characters.

One of the most popular statues is that of Marsupilami, a quirky and endearing creature known for its long, prehensile tail. This statue captures Marsupilami in a playful pose, ready to spring into action. Another beloved character is Spirou, known as Robbedoes in Dutch, who stands proudly on his pedestal, embodying the spirit of adventure and curiosity.

Jommeke
A little boy who plays one prank after another. You will recognise him by his typical blond hairdo and always accompanied by his parrot Flip. Jommeke was the first statue to stand on the Zeedijk in 1997.

Nero
Nero... the comic strip that always ends with a traditional waffle bowl. In 1998, Nero is placed at the Casino as the second statue.

Lucky Luke
Lucky Luke, Rantanplan and the Dalton family sit on a bluestone pedestal in the Jules Van Den Heuvelstraat. After being damaged, the statue was cast in bronze and reinstalled in 2008.

Urbanus
Urban's first comic strip came out in 1983. He wears short, much too wide trousers, bottoms and braces. And this is also how you can see him in a bronze statue on our Zeedijk.

Suske and Wiske
Suske and Wiske Comic strips full of magic, ghosts, wizards, witches, dragons, devils, and so on.... Everyone undoubtedly knows them... Suske and Wiske. In 2002, the statue is placed on the Zeedijk. .

The Smurfs
101 smurfs exist... on the Zeedijk of Middelkerke you can find 2 of them. Smurfette and baby smurf. They are in Alexandre Ponchonstraat...

The Red Knight
Exciting knightly adventures with the Red Knight as the main character. In 2010, he stands shining impressively on the Zeedijk. The sculpture is by Josyanne Vanhoutte.

Lambik
He is absent-minded, clumsy, rather stupid, often also unreliable Wears black trousers and a white shirt. His bald head has barely 6 strands of hair left...none other than Lambik, of course.

Fanny & Cie
In the ‘Kiekeboe’ series, Fanny is the most striking character. Of course, she cannot be missing from our promenade. She got a spot near Johannastraat

Annemieke and Rozemieke
Twins Annemieke and Rozemieke find their place on the Zeedijk in the summer of 2006 near Theresiastraat. They provide a bit of peace and quiet when their friends Jommeke and Filiberke get too close.... 

The Stripstandbeelden Middelkerke is just one of the many ways the town celebrates its love for comic books. In addition to the statues, the promenade features several comic-themed murals, adding vibrant splashes of color to the seaside landscape. Visitors can also find a statue of Tante Sidonie, a character from the popular comic series Bob and Bobette, sitting on a public bench. This interactive statue invites visitors to take a seat and snap a photo with the charming Aunt Sidonie.

For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of Belgian comics, a visit to the annual Middelkerke Comic Festival is a must. Held every summer since 1987, this festival brings together comic book artists, fans, and collectors for a weekend of exhibitions, signings, and celebrations. It's a fantastic opportunity to meet the creators behind the characters and immerse oneself in the vibrant comic book culture.