The Borinage

Reconversion of industrial landscapes

This excursion will introduce you to the relics of the 19^th-20^th century industrial landscape of Belgium, situated between Mons and La Louvière (Waloon region, province Henegouwen). Since the end of the 18^th century, the landscapes in this area changed drastically due to the industrial development and the production of coal and steel. In a short period, the agricultural landscape transformed into a dense industrial area. New industrial sites and living quarters were designed and new and sophisticated infrastructures such as train ways, canals and ship elevators were introduced to increase the accessibility. The region became an inspiration for artists like Van Gogh. After the decline of the coal industry in the 20^th century, the whole region became in decay. Only in the recent years, a reconversion can be recognised, thanks to reconversion projects. However, the industrial history is still very legible in the area recognised by industrial sites, mounds of colliery waste and the 19^th century transport ways.

We will explore the different remnants of the rich industrial past, including some World Heritage sites, we will walk along the old canals with hydraulic ship elevators and look for the reconversions and revival of the area.