Inside a cooling tower on the outskirts of Charleroi, Belgium
Described in 2009 by an article in the Telegraph newspaper as the most depressing city in Europe, Chareroi (pronunciation being French) has suffered over many years. Part of the municipality of Wallonia and located in the province of Hainaut, Belgium. This city which had a population of just 0ver 203,000 (listed in 2013), has a very high unemployment level along with poverty. Due to the alarming figures, it has made it unsafe for visitors. “Carolos” (the nickname given to those who live and are from Charleroi) repeatedly warn those who wish to travel alone and visit the now rotting and abandoned factories that they are at risk of being victims of crime. Enterprising Carolos offer the quirky tours to see such sights, known as “Urban Safari’s”. With the nickname the Pays Noir (translated - Black Country) it is understandable why it has become a sad place for all who reside. Once it was prosperous with a steel and heavy industry as well as coal mining but now it has fallen silent making it a top destination Urban Explorers who wish to see the now rotting industrial sites. Charleroi is 31 miles (50 km) south of Brussels and North of the city centre by miles (7 km) is the Brussels South airport. Many travellers are surprised by the neglect as they travel through the city on route to more picturesque and cosmopolitan destinations.
Size: 4288px × 2848px
Location: Charleroi, municipality of Wallonia, province of Hainaut, Belgium
Photo credit: © Simon Webster / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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