The town was established in the 17th century. Thanks to a growing airport, waterways and rail and road networks, Charleroi, situated just 50 kilometres from Brussels on the Sambre river, has grown into an important European crossroads and has achieved its ambition to become a major city. Charleroi has numerous riches for everyone to discover. The many museums, churches, abbeys and castles present an interesting and varied selection for the genuine culture-lover. The city is surrounded by hilly and wooded landscapes.
Walkers can enjoy wandering through the parks and on the numerous paths through fields and woods.