Grand-Hornu
Grand-Hornu is a former factory complex in Hornu, Belgium, constructed from brick and stone with a planned layout of workshops, housing, and open courtyards. The site spans a considerable area, preserving the solid industrial architecture and symmetrical windows typical of 19th-century design.
Grand-Hornu began as a coal mining and processing site in the early 1800s during Belgium's industrial expansion. The mines closed in 1954, and the site was gradually restored from the 1970s onward, eventually becoming a cultural venue and receiving UNESCO World Heritage recognition in 2012.
The name Grand-Hornu reflects the Hornu family's influence on the site. Today, visitors experience contemporary art installations displayed within the industrial brick structures, creating a dialogue between past factory work and present creative expression.
The site is easily accessible by car or public transportation with nearby parking available. Pathways are wheelchair accessible, making it friendly for visitors with varying mobility needs, and free guided tours are offered from Tuesday to Friday afternoons and Sunday mornings and afternoons.
The site nearly faced demolition in 1969 before a worker purchased it privately in the 1970s and began restoration efforts. This unexpected rescue allowed its transformation into a cultural venue that now hosts approximately ten exhibitions annually.
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