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Industrial heritage · Genk, Limburg
C-mine
The former Winterslag coal mine, closed in 1988, was transformed into a cultural centre with a cinema, an arts school, restaurants and the C-mine expeditie, which traverses the tunnels and ascends an extraction tower.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About C-mine
C-mine occupies the former Winterslag coal mine in northwest Genk. Coal was discovered in the region in 1901, and the first block from the Campine basin came out of Winterslag in 1914; commercial production began in 1917. The mine closed on 31 March 1988, after just over 70 years of operation.
The complex was protected as heritage in 1993. Genk municipality bought the site in 2001 and, in 2005, C-mine was established, focused on culture and the creative industries. The two steel extraction towers, the power station with the extraction machinery, the lamp room, the changing rooms and the offices remained.
Today the buildings house performance halls, a ten-screen cinema, exhibitions, shops, restaurants and the LUCA arts school. The main attraction for visitors is the C-mine expeditie, a route of about 1.5 km through the former mine site, including the ventilation tunnels, which ends with a climb up one of the extraction towers.
The square around the towers is open and good for a coffee between visits.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1.5 to 2 hours with the expedition; longer if you stay for a film or a meal.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, to do the expedition at a relaxed pace. Book the expedition and check opening days before you go.
How to get there
It is in the Winterslag neighbourhood, about 2 km from Genk centre. De Lijn buses stop in front, at the Genk C‑Mine stop.
Tip
Wear closed shoes and clothes that can get a little dirty for the tunnel expedition. The climb to the extraction tower involves stairs and may be challenging for those with a fear of heights.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about C-mine
What is the C-mine expeditie?
It is a guided route of about 1.5 km through the former Winterslag mine site, passing ventilation tunnels and ending with a climb up one of the extraction towers.
When did the mine close?
On 31 March 1988, after just over 70 years of production. In 2005 the site reopened as a cultural centre under the name C-mine.
Do you need to reserve the expedition?
It is advisable, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Confirm times before you go.
What else is there at C-mine?
A ten‑screen cinema, performance spaces, exhibitions, restaurants and the LUCA arts school, as well as the square around the towers.