Northern French coal mining region

The northern French coal mining region extends across 120 kilometers, featuring industrial structures such as pit heads, processing plants, and worker housing estates.

From the 18th century until 1990, this region produced coal that fueled the industrial growth of France, employing thousands of workers across numerous mining sites.

Mining towns developed specific social organizations, with workers gathering in clubs, participating in brass bands, and maintaining gardens near their houses.

Several mining sites now function as museums, offering guided tours that demonstrate extraction techniques and display original mining equipment from different periods.

The region contains 353 mining heritage elements, including 17 large slag heaps that reach heights of 140 meters and form distinct landmarks in the landscape.

Location: Nord

Location: Pas-de-Calais

GPS coordinates: 50.46250,3.54611

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:37