The coalfields of Wallonia were once amongst the most productive in western Europe, but in the 1970s one mine after another was forced to close as the black stuff became uneconomical to extract. The Blegny Mine, near Liège, was one of the last to cease production (in 1980), but within a few months the authorities decided to preserve it so that future generations could appreciate the physically punishing work the miners had to endure, and the huge contribution they made to Belgium’s prosperity.

• Telefoon +(0)4 387 43 33
• E-mail domaine@blegnymine.be
• Adress rue Lambert Marlet 23, 4670 Blegny
• Website http://www.blegnymine.be