Lifts on the old Canal du Centre, Industrial heritage site in La Louvière, Belgium.
The lifts on the old Canal du Centre are four hydraulic structures that raise and lower boats over height differences of about 17 meters (56 feet). Each one uses water as its power source and allows larger vessels to pass without needing traditional locks.
The first lift at Houdeng-Gœgnies opened in 1888 and showed the advanced water technology of that era. The other three structures were added afterward to expand the system for heavier shipping traffic.
These lifts show how Belgium revolutionized water transport in the 19th century and demonstrated its engineering skill. Visitors can see today how these structures changed the way people thought about canals and shipping.
Visitors can explore the site from April through October and watch the mechanisms in action. The best way to experience it is to take a boat ride through the lifts to see how the technology works up close.
Of eight similar lifts built worldwide, these four are the only ones still standing today. This rarity makes them a precious record of early 20th century engineering skill.
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