In the city named after Charles II, on the square named after Charles II, there is a solid majestic building, which seems to have appeared 150-200 years ago. It doesn`t look its age, though it is only 85 years old. This effect was created by the talented architect Jules Cesar. He fitted the City Hall building perfectly into the ensemble of the square dominated by the Church of St. Christopher (17th century).

The construction of the City Hall was planned during the times of the city's prosperity at the beginning of the 20th century. Charleroi was at the center of industrial life in Belgium, as it was the leader in the production of coal, fabrics, glass. However, first World War I and then political distractions within the country postponed the start of the project. So, the City Hall and the city administration building appeared on the square only in 1936.

It is commonly known that appearances are deceitful. The strict and rather ordinary facade of the City Hall hides a luxurious interior in the Art Deco style. By the way, everyone is allowed to enter the City Hall: a staff member at the entrance will kindly show you what you can see in the public domain. And there is something to see: chandeliers, staircases, sculptures, murals, a wedding hall, a conference room. Everything is in the Art Deco style. Everything is majestic, elegant, and magnificent. At the entrance, you will be greeted by friendly citizens that are represented by six giant dolls dressed in local and national costumes.

A 70-meter bell tower was built together with the City Hall. In Belgium, they call it a belfry. You can climb its 250 steps to the very top. Stop by the second floor of the tower. There is a tourist office, where you can get a free map of the city and discounts on visiting other places. At the very top, there are observation platforms, giant two-meter dial plates, and a carillon of 47 bells. Every quarter of an hour, the latter plays the motives by the composer Jacques Bertrand, who had based them on local folk songs. Despite its young age, the Charleroi belfry, along with other 29 bell towers, is included in the list of "Belfries of Belgium and France" and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.