Comics vs. Paix Dieu vs. Curtius

Today we have 2 Belgian Beers with a Twist, and a Day at a comic event in Eupen in East East Belgium.

Belgium 🇧🇪 is known for two things: beer and comics.

Ok, there is as well chocolate and cheese and French fries and all this great People and the #HiveMeetupAachen, but today we need to focus on just the two topics.

So, when I took a trip to Eupen to check out the Dark Comiciade at the Jünglinghaus. A lot of art and cool artist who really do all this by hand.

For me it seemed only natural to dive into a comparison of two Belgian favorites — Paix Dieu and Curtius — along the way.

But first the Dark Comiciade

Eupen and the Dark Comiciade

The late afternoon I spent in Eupen. This was the perfect blend of art and indulgence. I headed straight to the Jünglinghaus, where the Dark Comiciade was in full swing.

Imagine walls filled with moody, noir-inspired illustrations and vibrant storytelling that pulls you right into Belgium’s comic culture.

See their into video

^{Source the Dark Comiciade}

The exhibition, with its edgy, dark vibe, was a feast for the eyes and a total mind trip. I talked to a few artists and figured out that this was a lot pro painters and creators.

Discovering Graf Rucola by Henry Kreklow: A Comic Adventure with a Twist

While exploring Eupen’s Dark Comiciade, I stumbled upon Graf Rucola, a graphic novel by Henry Kreklow that feels like a hidden gem of Belgian comic artistry. Kreklow’s work is wildly inventive, blending humor, gothic vibes, and a touch of the absurd into an unforgettable story. Graf Rucola introduces us to an eccentric, vampiric count with an unusual obsession: arugula.

Henry Kreklow

Inside the book „Graf Rucola“

Graf Rucola was here

The plot is as quirky as it sounds. Graf Rucola is no typical aristocrat—he’s a vampire, sure, but his cravings lean less toward blood and more toward fresh greens. Through Kreklow’s sharp wit and darkly charming illustrations, we follow the Count as he navigates a bizarre world where salads and sinister plots collide. It’s funny, visually captivating, and delivers that unique, dark humor Belgian comics are known for.

Reading Graf Rucola after touring the Dark Comiciade was the perfect ending to my day in Eupen. There is a shop at https://www.nonplusultra.org/produkt/graf-rucula/ where you can get your copy.

I work on that Author to get him into Hive and maybe even a translation into English and Spanish.

Like the contrast between Paix Dieu and Curtius beers, Kreklow’s book offers a fresh, modern take on classic themes. If you’re up for something different, grab a copy — it’s an adventure as unique as a Belgian Blonde vs. a Tripel. And trust me, it’ll stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Now to the beer

Sure, they have a bar and some different high quality beers. This is somewhat typical in Belgium 🇧🇪

Paix Dieu Beer: A Full-Moon Brew with a Bold Character

Paix Dieu is brewed by the Brasserie Caulier, but there’s a twist: they only brew it under a full moon. Seriously. This Belgian Tripel is around 10% ABV, so it’s no lightweight. The taste? It’s rich and layered, with hints of honey, spices, and just enough bitterness in the finish to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of beer that makes you slow down and savor, thanks to its warm, full-bodied taste and unique story.

Curtius Beer: Fresh, Modern, and Lightly Floral

On the other side, Curtius from Brasserie de la Principauté is all about lightness and innovation. It’s a Belgian Blonde at 7% ABV with a crisp, floral aroma and a hint of citrus, making it a go-to for anyone who loves a softer, more refreshing beer. This one’s easy to drink, with a mild, subtly sweet finish. It’s perfect for a casual hangout or, say, an afternoon relaxing in Eupen after checking out some incredible artwork.

Compare this two Beer

I made a short table with the help of my automatic tools. Did you know that a GPT can write you even Markdown language tables if you ask the right questions?

Beer for watching Art

After diving into the art, I had to unwind, and what better way than with some classic Belgian beer? Sipping on Paix Dieu felt like savoring a piece of Belgium’s brewing heritage—strong and full of character—while Curtius was a refreshing counterpoint, lighter and modern, like the very spirit of Eupen itself.

Enjoy Belgium

If you’re in Belgium and love comics and beer, make a stop in Eupen. Hit up the Dark Comiciade, explore the local flavors, and soak in the creative, chilled-out atmosphere of this unique little corner of Europe. It’s a trip you won’t forget.