Wallonia

Wallonia (French: Wallonie) or Walloon Region (French: Région Wallonne) is the predominantly French-speaking region that constitutes one of the three federal regions of Belgium, with its capital at Namur. Its official languages are French and German.

Economy

The Walloon economy experienced a strong development in the 19th century, essentially in the regions of Liege and Charleroi. Belgium was then the first country in continental Europe to undergo an industrial revolution in the early 1800s, mainly based on iron and coal industries.

Related Topics:
Liege - Charleroi - Industrial revolution - Iron - Coal

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The profitability of these types of heavy industries started declining in the first half of the 20th century, which saw the center of industrial activity shift to the northern part of Belgium. The crisis in the steel industry led to a painful economic restructuration in Wallonia.

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The current Walloon economy is relatively diversified, although certain areas -- especially around Charleroi and Liège -- are still suffering from the steel industry crisis, with a high unemployment rate.

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The Ardennes area south of the Meuse River is a popular tourist destination, with places such as Bastogne, Dinant, Durbuy, and the famous watering place of Spa.

Related Topics:
Ardennes - Meuse River - Bastogne - Dinant - Durbuy - Spa

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