Highlights

Mons at first sight !

The Must-Sees of Mons

Mons, capital of Hainaut and a city with a rich heritage, invites you to explore its many facets through its key themes. From its fascinating historical past to its vibrant cultural life, its heritage sites, and its economic dynamism, Mons is a city where every corner tells a story.

Immerse yourself in the key areas that shape the identity of Mons: UNESCO, Art inhabits the City, Memory Tourism, Van Gogh in the Borinage, cycling, the slag heaps, and much more. Let yourself be guided and discover what makes Mons a unique city, where tradition and modernity meet to offer an unforgettable experience.

The UNESCO

Discover the treasures of the region!

The Mons region can be proud to possess several UNESCO World Heritage sites, true witnesses to its history and cultural richness.

The Belfry of Mons, the only baroque belfry in Belgium, the Grand-Hornu mining site, the Neolithic flint mines of Spiennes, the Doudou, and other iconic sites make this region a must-visit destination for heritage enthusiasts. These exceptional sites, listed for their historical and cultural value, attract numerous visitors every year. Explore the treasures of Mons and immerse yourself in the world of its UNESCO-listed heritage, from architecture to folklore, craftsmanship, and fascinating stories. Enjoy your visit to discover the authenticity and diversity of the Mons region, a true concentration of history at the heart of Europe.

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Art lives in the city

Mons, an open-air museum!

Art lives in the city transforms Mons into an open-air art exhibition, featuring urban works created by international artists in the streets and shopping districts

In the heart of the cultural capital of Wallonia, dive into the artistic universe of the city and discover the monumental murals that embellish the neighborhoods of Mons and Greater Mons. Today, more than 100 murals adorn the city center of Mons and its surroundings, helping to strengthen the dynamism and appeal of public spaces. These murals make art accessible to all and reflect the richness of a multicultural identity.

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Van Gogh in the Borinage

Vincent van Gogh, the birth of an artist.

Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890), whose career began in the Borinage, is one of the most beloved artists in the world. The history of Mons-Borinage is closely linked to that of Vincent van Gogh, as it was in Wasmes and later in Cuesmes that he transitioned from being a preacher to becoming an artist.

Today, the traces of his stay are still visible for beautiful walks in the footsteps of Van Gogh in the Borinage. From December 1878 to October 1880, Vincent van Gogh lived in the Mons-Borinage region. First in Wasmes, where he moved into a room with a view of the Marcasse coal mine, and later in a cabin to live like the miners. Van Gogh then moved to Cuesmes, where he lived in a small room that witnessed his transformation from man to artist. These two houses were renovated as part of Mons 2015, European Capital of Culture, and are exceptional witnesses to Van Gogh’s time in the region.

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Memory tourism

Mons: a city of memory

Positioned at a strategic point in Europe, the city of Mons and its surroundings have been the site of several significant historical events over the centuries. Notably during World War I and World War II, when it was a key stop in the journey undertaken by thousands of soldiers.

From legend to reality, Mons offers an authentic memorial journey where the symbolism is profound. Follow in the footsteps of these great men and visit the Mons Memorial Museum, the Saint-Symphorien Military Cemetery, and many other discoveries!

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Mons by bike

Pedal through the streets and alleys on your bike and discover Mons and the surrounding region from a different perspective.

From the Vhello, the node network to the cycling routes that allow you to explore the region, including bike rentals, Mons is the ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts.

Explore the city and its treasures at your own pace. A true journey through history, nature, and local culture awaits you with every pedal stroke!

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Destinations terrils

The history of Mons-Borinage is closely linked to the coal mining industry.

The Mons Couchant Basin was exploited as early as the 13th century, before becoming the largest coal basin in Europe by the end of the 19th century. At that time, the Borinage supplied all of Belgium and a large part of France with coal.

Today, the traces of these mining sites are still visible throughout the area. Whether it's preserved historical sites like Grand-Hornu or Marcasse, or the slag heaps, geological remnants that harbor exceptional wildlife and flora.

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