In the early nineteenth century, the industrial revolution swept across continental Europe and one steelworks after another rose from the ground. Europe had hundreds of blast furnaces, but since the mid-twentieth century, Europe's steel industry has been slowly going downhill.

Early on Tuesday, June 6, 1944, thousands of landing craft moored on the beaches of Normandy for 'Operation Overlord'.

The fierce Battle of Berlin was the final fight at the end of World War II. The bloody confrontation, from mid-April to early May 1945, brought the Nazi regime to its knees and ended World War II.

Uncover the secrets of Belgium's unique charm as we unveil ten unconventional destinations waiting to be explored. 

Wallonia, Belgium, boasts a rich industrial heritage, and at the heart of this legacy lie four UNESCO World Heritage coal mining sites. Each site holds its own distinctive characteristics and historical significance, representing different eras and regions of Wallonia's coal mining history. Let's explore these remarkable coal mines, one from each of Wallonia's mining regions.

Once a year, Arenberg coal mine and two abandoned railway bridges play a starring role during the passage of the spring cycle classic: Paris-Roubaix. 

Gent-Wevelgem is not only an annual cycling classic but also a commemoration of the First World War. Since 2015, the cycling race has officially been called 'Gent-Wevelgem in Flanders Fields.' The cycling classic occurs every year on the Sunday before the Tour of Flanders.

In the shadows of our bustling cities and within the pages of our rich history lie hidden tales of forgotten spaces and somber sites. HiddenMonuments.com invites you to the heart of urban exploration (Urbex) and dark tourism, two intriguing phenomena that offer a unique lens through which to view our world.

In the heart of Europe, beyond the well-trodden paths of its famous historical landmarks and natural wonders, lies a different kind of heritage—one forged from iron and steel, powered by steam and coal, and echoing with the toil of industry.