C-Mine Genk: Belgium September 2017

At the turn of the 20th century the transformation of Genk from a quiet village with 3000 inhaitants to a large industrial town began.

Coal was discovered and three large collieries are developed. Waterschei which I visited in 2015, Zwartberg and Winterslag, which is now known as C-mine.

So I must make this clear this is not urban exploring this is actually a free to enter museum/exhibition space. Winterslag closed in 1998 and was the last coal mine to close in Genk.

After the site had been left abandoned for a number of years a restoration project was started and the buildings have retained their awesome contents in a pristine condition.

I think its great how the Europeans embrace their industrial heritage compared to here in the UK. There are a number of sites like this around Belgium and Germany and if you do enjoy industrial heritage they are well worth a visit.

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C Mine Genk: Grand railings in the compressor hall.

C Mine Genk: There were two matching sets.

C Mine Genk: We then take a look in the winding house.

C Mine Genk: Small control room in the winding house.

C Mine Genk: A very vintage generating set.

C Mine Genk: This grand turbine hall is only used for events and we couldn’t gain access. Had to shoot this through a window. To the right are lots of tables laid out for an event later that day.

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