Major Mining Sites of Wallonia
Major Mining Sites of Wallonia
Wallonia, a region in the south of Belgium, has a rich mining history that dates back to the 16th century. The industrial heritage of Wallonia is still visible today through its numerous mining sites, which are now open to visitors and offer a unique glimpse into the region’s past. In this guide, we will explore some of the most significant mining sites in Wallonia.
1. Blegny-Mine
Located in the city of Visé (or Montzen), near Liège, is the Blegny-Mine, one of the last remaining coal mines in Belgium. This mine, which operated from 1957 to 1992, has been transformed into a museum that showcases what life was like for miners and their families during that period.
Key Features:
- Visit a fully preserved coal mining site with original equipment.
- Interactive exhibits explore the daily lives of miners.
- A guided tour can be arranged in advance.
2. Bois du Lys
In the heart of Charleroi, lies Bois du Lys, one of Wallonia’s largest coal mines. It operated from 1908 to 1993 and is now home to a mining museum that offers tours.
Key Features:
- Explore an old mine shaft.
- See original equipment on display.
- Learn about the history of the mine through interactive exhibits.
3. Bois du Lys’ Mining Museum
This museum in Charleroi is located near the former coal mine and offers a detailed look at the mining industry’s past.
Key Features:
- A collection of mining equipment.
- Exhibits on the history of coal mining.
- Events and workshops can be attended for a deeper understanding of the subject.
4. Bois du Lys’ Open Pit Mine
Visit an open pit mine located near Charleroi, which was also used for coal extraction until it was closed in 2003.
Key Features:
- A large open-air site offering panoramic views.
- Information about the geology and history of the area.
- An opportunity to see the remnants of a mining operation up close.
5. Mijnmuseum
Located near the town of Kelmis (also known as Yernzen), Mijnmuseum is a museum that showcases the mining industry in Wallonia and Germany.
Key Features:
- A comprehensive look at the history of coal mining.
- Interactive exhibits on the daily life of miners.
- A collection of mining equipment from different time periods.
6. Mijnmuseum’s Outdoor Area
The outdoor area of Mijnmuseum features a large open-air site that includes the remains of an old mine, a railway track, and other remnants of a coal mining operation.
Key Features:
- A unique opportunity to see the remnants of a mining operation up close.
- Information about the geology and history of the area.
- Panoramic views from a raised platform offering a complete overview of the site.
7. Mijnmuseum’s Mine
This mine, located near the museum, is one of the last remaining coal mines in Belgium.
Key Features:
- A fully preserved coal mining site with original equipment.
- Interactive exhibits that explore the daily lives of miners.
- Guided tours can be arranged in advance for a deeper understanding of the subject.
8. Mijnmuseum’s Museum
This museum, located near the mine, is home to a collection of mining equipment and exhibits on the history of coal mining.
Key Features:
- A comprehensive look at the history of coal mining.
- Interactive exhibits on the daily life of miners.
- Events and workshops can be attended for a deeper understanding of the subject.
9. Bois du Lys’ Open Pit Mine
Visit an open pit mine located near Charleroi, which was also used for coal extraction until it was closed in 2003.
Key Features:
- A large open-air site offering panoramic views.
- Information about the geology and history of the area.
- An opportunity to see the remnants of a mining operation up close.