Fontaine-l'Évêque: A Hidden Gem in Belgium

If you're looking for a destination off the beaten path in Belgium, Fontaine-l'Évêque should be on your radar. This small city located in the province of Hainaut is home to a plethora of cultural and natural attractions. From historical landmarks to scenic terrils (slag heaps), Fontaine-l'Évêque has something for everyone.

Abbaye Aulne

Start your journey by visiting Abbaye Aulne, a Cistercian monastery founded in the 7th century. The abbey was destroyed during the French Revolution, but its ruins remain as a testament to the region’s rich history. Walk around the site and experience the peacefulness of the surroundings. Don't miss the chance to take a guided tour to learn about the abbey's past.

URL: abbayedaulne.be/

Terrils: Unique Landscapes

Fontaine-l'Évêque is surrounded by terrils, which are unique to this region. These colossal mounds of slag are a result of the coal mining industry that once thrived in Hainaut. Today, these terrils have been transformed into natural sanctuaries where you can enjoy scenic views, walks and hikes.

Some terrils worth exploring:

• Terril Leveau URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...
• Terril Saint Quentin Sud URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...
• Terril de la Belle-Vue URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...

Belfry of Thuin

The Belfry of Thuin is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in the region. This bell tower is the only remaining part of a medieval castle that once stood in the city. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Thuin and the surrounding area.

URL: beffroidethuin.be/

Escaliers des Rames

The Escaliers des Rames is a set of historic stairs in the Dampremy district of Fontaine-l'Évêque. This flight of steps dates back to the 19th century and is a great example of industrial architecture. It served as a shortcut for miners on their way to work.

URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...

Canal du Centre historique

The Canal du Centre historique is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the region. This channel played a significant role in Belgium's industrialization, and today it’s a popular destination for boat tours. Take a leisurely cruise and learn about the canal's history while enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way.

URL: www.canalducentre.be/

Parc Bivort

Parc Bivort is a green oasis in the heart of Fontaine-l'Évêque. This park has something for everyone, whether you want to relax and enjoy a picnic or take a stroll around the gardens. It also features a playground for kids and a petting zoo.

URL: www.facebook.com/Parc-Bivor...

Museums

Fontaine-l'Évêque has two museums that offer a glimpse into the city's past:

• Maison Lemaître: This museum showcases the life and work of a local artist, Pierre Lemaître. His paintings depict the daily life of coal miners in the region. URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...

• Site du Pêchon - Puits no 25 dit "Le Pèchon": This mining museum is located in Marcinelle, a small village near Fontaine-l'Évêque. Here you can learn about the history of the coal mining industry in Hainaut and the daily life of miners. URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...

Street Art

Fontaine-l'Évêque has a thriving street art scene, and you'll find murals and artworks throughout the city. Some notable pieces include:

• Fresque Hell’O Monsters – Asphalte 2014 URL: www.instagram.com/jer_hello...
• Fresque Sixe Paredes – Asphalte 2014 URL: www.sixeparedes.com/
• Fresque Art Reconnects Belgium 2020 - El Niño et Demos URL: www.instagram.com/elnino.76/
• Fresque Sozyone Gonzales – Asphalte 2014 URL: www.instagram.com/sozyone/
• Fleur - Macho Asphalte 2014

Other Attractions

• Statue - Le mineur accroupi URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...
• Statue - Le forgeron au repos URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...
• Monument aux 1er et 4ème régiments de Chasseurs à pied URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...
• Monument au Pigeon Soldat URL: www.charleroi-decouverte.be...
• Voies D'Eau Du Hainaut URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...
• Le Passage de la Bourse URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...
• Caserne URL: www.charleroi.be/decouvrir/...

Getting Around

Fontaine-l'Évêque is a small city, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore the surrounding area, it's best to rent a car or take public transportation.

Conclusion

Fontaine-l'Évêque may not be as well-known as other destinations in Belgium, but it's definitely worth a visit. Whether you're interested in history, natural landscapes, or street art, this city has something to offer. Take your time to explore the many attractions, and you'll discover a hidden gem in the heart of Hainaut.

Note: URLs for each attraction are provided within the text.