Sambre

Sambre is a river in northern France and Belgium. It is a left-bank tributary of the Meuse. The river rises in the French department of Aisne and flows north through the Sambre-Avesnois regional natural park. It enters Belgium near Chimay and continues its course through the province of Hainaut, passing through cities such as Charleroi and Namur, where it joins the Meuse.

The Sambre is approximately 193 kilometers (120 miles) long. Its drainage basin covers an area of about 2,870 square kilometers (1,110 square miles). The river's course has been significantly altered over centuries due to human intervention, particularly for navigation and industrial purposes. Canals and locks have been built to ensure its navigability, making it an important waterway for the transport of goods in the Walloon region of Belgium.

Historically, the Sambre valley has been a site of significant industrial activity, especially coal mining and metallurgy, centered around Charleroi. This has led to considerable environmental challenges, though efforts are underway to address pollution and revitalize the river's ecosystem. The Sambre also holds historical significance, having been the scene of several battles, notably during World War I. The river valley is characterized by a mix of industrial landscapes, agricultural land, and some natural areas.