One of the biggest cities of Belgium, a pearl of ancient Wallonia, Charleroi, attracts lovers of silence, calmness, and peaceful contemplation of ancient neighborhoods and streets that are surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes. Only once a year, during an international festival of modern dance named Charleroi Danse, the city turns into a real magical extravaganza. Incendiary sounds of music are heard everywhere. Cozy city squares get filled with dance lovers from all over the world. However, this is an exceptional event. Normally, this city, founded by Spanish people in the remote 17th century, can be called a perfect place for life and recreation. It is truly ideal for fans of that kind of subtle beauty that seems to be accidentally caught by a talented photographer. Therefore, it is no accident that one of the main attractions of Charleroi is the Museum of Photography, the largest in Europe.

The grand opening of that museum and the Center for Contemporary Art of the French Community was organized in 1987. It took place in the Carmelite monastery located in a wonderful place called Mont-sur-Marchienne. The former small village on the outskirts of Charleroi became a part of the city in 1977. Ten years later, it has gained worldwide fame thanks to its modern, prestigious museum.

The unique museum collection consists of more than 3 million negatives and 80 thousand imprints. Not to mention 9 temporary exhibitions annually organized within two spacious monastery chapels. Permanent exhibitions are dedicated to the overall history of photography, while temporary exhibitions usually display modern Belgian photographers’ works. The museum visitors can see the world through the lens of professional cameras of different times. They can become witnesses of astonishing stories and events of the past, as well as demystify the mysterious future (the way it is seen by photographers). Be sure to visit this famous museum, even if you are not a connoisseur of photography – a fascinating walk across the Gothic monastery is a real pleasure.