Maasmechelen

Maasmechelen is a municipality in the Belgian province of Limburg, in the Flemish Region. It sits along the Meuse river in the northeastern part of Limburg. The municipality comprises several population centers, including Maasmechelen, Eisden and Meeswijk, each with its own history.

Historically, the area developed around peat extraction and coal mining. The Mines of Eisden were a major employer in the 20th century, and the mine district left a distinctive industrial legacy in Eisden-Dorp and nearby neighborhoods. Since the decline of mining, Maasmechelen has diversified its economy toward services, commerce and tourism. The municipality benefited from cross-border links and cultural exchange with neighboring Dutch Limburg.

Maasmechelen hosts several notable attractions. The Maasmechelen Village outlet centre is a major shopping destination. The Hoge Kempen National Park, the first national park in Flanders, stretches into the region and offers forests, heathlands and network of trails around the park, with visitor facilities in the area. The Meuse river area supports cycling and walking routes.

Demographics and language: The municipality has a population in the tens of thousands, and Dutch is the official language. The area participates in cross-border cooperation with the Netherlands and preserves its industrial heritage while promoting new housing and green space.