Marcinelle disaster, Mining accident in Belgium
The Marcinelle disaster is one of the worst mining accidents in European history.
On August 8, 1956, a fire in the coal mine Bois du Cazier engulfed the shaft, leading to the deaths of 262 miners.
This tragedy deeply affected the Italian community, as most victims were Italian migrant workers.
The site now houses a museum dedicated to the event and the history of coal mining in the region.
The Marcinelle disaster led to several safety reforms in European mining operations.
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GPS coordinates
50.38056,4.44278
Latest update
August 31, 2026 12:11
