0 Major mining sites of Wallonia

Grand Hornu Sky

Four mining sites in Wallonia (Grand Hornu, Bois-du-Luc, Bois du Cazier and Blegny-Mine) were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List on Sunday 1 July 2012. The four sites form a 170km-long strip that crosses Belgium from east to west and consists of the best-preserved 19th- and 20th-century coal mining sites in Belgium.

The inclusion of Wallonia’s major mining sites on the World Heritage List

Carlo Di Antonio, the Minister for Walloon Heritage announced that the UNESCO World Heritage Committee has recognized Wallonia’s major mining sites as World Heritage.
Grand-Hornu, Bois-du-Luc, the Bois du Cazier and Blegny-Mine now feature, as a collective whole, on the prestigious List alongside other previously-recognized Walloon treasures (the lifts on the Canal
du Centre, the Walloon Belfries, the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Tournai and the Neolithic Flint Mines
at Spiennes).

Furthermore, the four sites form a coherent ensemble that justifies their serial nomination. This
Inclusion, which has met with Minister Di Antonio’s delight, represents a genuine recognition of the
History, diversity and richness of the major mining sites in Wallonia and Wallonia’s mining heritage in
general. This recognition is the culmination of collaborative constructive efforts carried out throughout the candidacy by the parties involved in the four mining sites with the cooperation of Wallonia. However it is only a step, in the form of a challenge, in the mission to conserve and enhance the sites, a mission to which managers of the sites and all the operators and institutions concerned by the zones in the inclusion are committed. For Minister Di Antonio, this inclusion constitutes a real opportunity for the development of heritage and tourism in Wallonia.

WHAT THE INCLUSION SIGNIFIES

According to the definition established by the World Heritage Committee, outstanding universal value
means cultural and/or natural significance which is so exceptional as to transcend national
boundaries and to be of common importance for present and future generations of all humanity. This
means that sites recognized as world heritage belong to all peoples of the world and embody
exceptional testimonies of the diversity of culture and the richness of nature.

To be included on the World Heritage List, the sites must have outstanding universal value and satisfy
at least one of the ten selection criteria set out by UNESCO. The criteria met by the collection of the
four sites are criteria II (to exhibit an important interchange of human values) and IV (to be an
outstanding example of (a) significant stage(s) in human history).

The four sites offer a condensed insight into all aspects of mining heritage: expertise, landscape,
Remembrance, social or architectural and they also complement one another. As a whole they represent a place of cultural confluence which has absorbed contributions (exchanges in technology, migration of workers, transfer of ideas and knowledge distribution) from highly diverse origins and which exercised considerable influence in Europe and the rest of the world.
The four sites in and of themselves illustrate the intense migration flows that the Walloon collieries
experienced, involving Flemish, Polish, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Moroccan and Turkish workers (and
many other nationalities besides). Among the 262 victims of the Bois du Cazier disaster, a dozen
nationalities were identified.

Exploiting the “coal seam” located between Nord-Pas de Calais and the Aix-la-Chapelle Basin, the
four sites span the same chronological period (from the beginning of the 19th century to the end of
20th century). The collection also forms a microcosm of the Industrial Revolution representing all the
different stages of technological and social development. While the Blegny and Bois du Cazier sites
represent the “work” element, the Grand-Hornu and Bois-du-Luc sites represent the “social” element
illustrating through their architecture the relationships of power and social organization with the
creation of “workers’ villages” under the auspices of paternalism.

All aspects of coal mining are represented at the four sites, demonstrating the course of expertise that
earned Wallonia its international renown. The particularly harsh and dangerous working conditions
also became blatantly apparent across the four sites, nowhere more so than at Bois du Cazier, the site of the terrible disaster on 8 August 1956.
The sites, by their quality, diversity, uniqueness and the richness of their components also meet the
standards of integrity and authenticity required by the World Heritage Committee.

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

This serial nomination will lead to the development and enhancement of the links that already existed
between the four sites.

In the short term they could also build relationships with other industrial heritage sites already
included on the List. The four Walloon mining sites are part of the continuity of industrial complexes
of the first half of the 19th century, including the landscape of Blaenavon (Wales), included on the
World Heritage List since 2000. Other sites such as Zollverein (Ruhr), included since 2001, belong to
a later period.
The four Walloon mining sites offer an exemplary illustration of the Industrial Revolution in
Continental Europe as well as its consequences that shaped our societies of today. This inclusion
represents a superb opportunity for the four mining sites to launch a completely new dynamic around
the conservation and cultural and tourist value of these treasures recognized for their universal value.

(Article source: whc.unesco.org/en/list/1344/)

Detail: Major mining sites of Wallonia

0 Tourist Attractions in Belgium

Brussels is quickly gaining a reputation as one of Europe's must-see destinations, with its small town charm, trendy bars and restaurants, fabulous food, great nightlife, fantastic shopping, numerous museums, and other attractions including the diverse and interesting exhibitions and festivals organized there every year.

Brussels is also becoming known as a Mecca of style, art, and design. While attracting more and more big names in international fashion to its growing shopping districts, home-grown Belgian designers are rapidly gaining global notoriety.  The streets of Brussels feature art and architecture created from an unmistakably Belgian point of view that cannot be replicated.  This beautiful city is a center for fashion, art, and Belgian culture.

Belgium is a beautiful country that is known for its historical towns and cities. This city is highly influenced by its past culture and heritage. If you are thinking of visiting Belgium then you can get a glance of the typical European culture and food. Here are some of the places of Belgium that you can visit.

Brussels: This is the capital city of Belgium and is known for its monuments that have been selected as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Some of the other attractions of this city include Parc du Cinquantenaire, Cinquantenaire Art Museum, Auto World Museum and Royal Military Museum.

Bruges: This is another stunning place that provides you an insight into the life of the European people. One of the major places of interest in this city is Groeningmusuem which is known for its collections of fine arts and other artifacts. Another place that is worth mentioning when you come to Bruges is the Choco Story Museum which gives you an insight into the art of making chocolates. Similarly, you can also visit the Frietmusuem which shows the history and role of potato and chips in Belgium.

Antwerp: This city has one of the largest seaports in the world. This city is one of the major centers for fashion in the world. Some of the places of interest in Antwerp are the Antwerp Zoo, Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Antwerp Port and many diamond shops which are the oldest in the world.

Ghent: This city is also referred as the 'City of Flowers'. The city is particularly known for its flower festival, Gentse Floralien that is organized once in every five years. This city is like a paradise to the music lovers with a number of music concerts and shows that are organized on almost every weekend. Food enthusiasts can also see and explore various food joints and other eateries that serve some of the best local delicacies.

Lueven: This city is situated on close proximity to Brussels and is famous for its Hortus Botanicus Loveniesis, which is a botanical garden that has some of the rare varieties of flowers and plants. This city has a number of educational institutions and thus remains crowded with the students all the time. Some of the other places of attraction in this city include Lueven Town Hall, Grand Beguinage and St. Peter's Church.

Hasselt: This is a small Belgian city that is known for its social places and designer brands. Many popular international designer brands have taken birth in this city. This place is best suited for the fashionable shoppers. Some of the other places of interest include Plopsa indoor park, Open Air Museum, Municipal Fashion Museum and National Genever Museum.

For information on accessibility of various hotels, attractions, and museums in Brussels, visit Brussels for All and our Special Needs Travel section. Discover Brussels through its inhabitants’ eyes! The Greeters, enthusiastic volunteers passionate about their city, share with you their perception of the capital, their anecdotes and their tips. A unique touristic experience!

Detail: Tourist Attractions in Belgium

0 Travel in Belgium

travelagenciesblog.blogspot.com travel guide to Belgium, featuring up-to-date information on attractions, hotels, restaurants, nightlife, travel tips and more. Belgium, one of the three Benelux countries, is a fascinating tourism destination. Here you'll find general travel and tourism information for Belgium.

The smaller the country, the prettier it is; European countries are almost same whether it is landlocked paradise Hungary or little Belgian abode. Belgium is a veiled appeal of Europe that is quietly sitting amid the most alluring cities of the continent London, Paris and Amsterdam. Belgium is an assortment of passé European grandeur.

The tiny country is a melting pot of cultures, which is made of medieval cities, traditional towns, striking town halls, mesmeric castles. List is not enough to keep you busy entire day, as USP of the tour is still not disclosed. Come here and check out, an array of pubs, nightlife enchantment and natural gleams are ready to snatch compliments from you.

The country boasts of many cultures and number of languages. Nevertheless, Dutch is the official language but French and German have similar impacts. What will you like to explore first in Belgium, architectural heritage, tranquil waterways or captivating canals. A trip to Belgium is a delight for lifetime.

Capital city Brussels is a treasure trove of gothic culture and unhurried lifestyle, which becomes more spectacular with medieval tints. It is a cosmopolitan city, which is known for its joyous ambiance. Set almost 180 years back, the country is becoming gorgeous with advent of its youth.

En route Belgium

If you are looking forward to plan a trip to Belgium, let us show you all the itineraries, which will offer the best deal of Belgium Travel. Enjoy your Belgium holiday.

Brussels airport is main airport at Belgium. This is well connected with almost every big city of the world. You can reach to the beautiful land via train or taxi. Normal taxi fare rolls around 95Euro.

Check it out

Though the Belgian country is too small and you can explore it just in a day, as the maximum distance is measured almost 300 kilometers, it boasts best public transport with a minor expense. If you want to board a train, you can gladly opt for that, Belgium railway offers train facility for every European destination. You will find a train after every thirty minute. These facilities make Belgium Tourism a rewarding experience.

Hotels in Belgium

There is abundance of hotels in Belgium. These hotels are wonderfully designed offer almost every facility that will tempt you. Belgium hotels are famous for its flawless service and grandeur. You will be getting a fabulous room to accommodate yourself, which is blended with many more facilities such as gym, sports club, med spa and scrumptious food items.

Apart from hotels, if you want to enjoy tour to Belgium in real nomadic style, opt for bunkers instead of lavishness of Belgium Hotels. Hey don't worry, bunkers are also full equipped.

Detail: Travel in Belgium

0 Travel Ideas in Brussels, Belgium

Traveling in Belgium by train is a great way to get from city to city. Read about taking the train in Belgium with tickets & tourism information in Belgium from travelagenciesblog.blogspot.com.

One great travel destination is Brussels, Belgium. Brussels is definitely an exquisite city with a lot to offer its tourists. However, in considering Brussels, Belgium as your travel destination, you may be at a loss for planning what to do while you're there.

Europe as a whole is full of art. This includes Brussels. So, if you have a divine love for art, one place that should be on the top of your list is the Museum of Modern Art. There are eight floors filled with art from various artists including Marcel Broodthaers, Rik Wouters, Rene Magritte, Andy Warhol, Marc Chagall, and many more.

One place you may want to plan a day for in Brussels is Place de Grand Sablon. This is where many upscale antique stores are located. There's Emporio Armani, Wittamer, and more. The statue of Minerva is what marks this square, which was given to the city in the year 1751 as a gift. There is a lot more to the square as well including Place du Petit, which is a small, quiet garden adorned with statues.

While you are in Brussels, Belgium you can also take the time to visit some other notable locations. Antwerp and Brugge are two other cities in Belgium that you might find to be of interest in your travels. Also, if you'd like to see France, Lille, France isn't too far either.

As you can see, there is a lot to do in Brussels, Belgium as well as in surrounding cities. Be sure to take in all that the area has to offer. Europe is truly a beautiful place. You don't want to pass up any opportunities you may have to travel abroad.

Detail: Travel Ideas in Brussels, Belgium

0 Things to Do in Brussels & in Bruges

Belgium travel Find Belgium vacation guides and travel tips on travelagenciesblog.blogspot.com. Research on hotels, restaurants, shopping’s, attractions, and destination maps for your Belgium.

Brussels and Bruges are two of the most popular travel destinations in Belgium. The cities are linked by a reliable rail network, which makes it easy for backpackers and gap year travelers in Europe to explore the sights of both on a single trip.

History and Politics in Brussels

Known as the 'Capital of Europe', Brussels is the administrative center of the European Union and home to the headquarters of NATO. But despite this significant role in modern politics and international relations, the city has managed to preserve much of its cultural heritage.

The city's rich history is celebrated in no less than 80 museums. As well as a number of excellent art galleries, highlights include a beer museum and several buildings designed by celebrated architect Victor Horta. Travelers might also enjoy the Bellevue Arts Museum, which is the official museum of the Belgian Royal Family. The building is an attraction in itself having once been used as a royal residence.

The Jewish Museum, which traces 1,000 years of the religion's history, is also an interesting visit. It has been open for 20 years and explores the presence of Judaism in Brussels and Belgium as a whole.

In addition to its great cultural attractions, Brussels also boasts a fun, vibrant nightlife scene and there are more than 400 different kinds of beer offered in the city's many bars! A popular hangout after dark is the central square, Place Saint-Gery, which is home to a number of fashionable cafes and luckily accessible from most Brussels hostels so travelers can find their way back after a long night sampling the local brews.


Medieval Bruges

At the heart of the region of Flanders, Bruges is packed with medieval charm and often called the 'Venice of the North' and the 'City of Romance' because of its attractive setting on the canals. The city center is a World Heritage Site and closed to cars so travelers can explore via a boat trip or the more budget-friendly option on foot.

One of the major sights of the city is the 83-meter-high Belfry tower, built in 13th century, in which energetic travelers can climb 366 steps for picturesque views of Bruges and the surrounding countryside.

The bars in Bruges tend to stay open until midnight, although some are open until the early hours, particularly in the trendy district of Langestraat. Located in the eastern part of the city, Langestraat is home to the city's student population and a number of Bruges hostels.

Detail: Things to Do in Brussels & in Bruges