Tamines

Tamines is a village and a district within the municipality of Sambreville in the Walloon Brabant province of Belgium. Historically, it was a significant industrial center, particularly known for its chemical industries. The village is situated along the Sambre River, a tributary of the Meuse.

The origins of Tamines can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating to prehistoric periods. Over centuries, it evolved from a rural community into a more industrialized town, especially during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The development of coal mining and related industries in the Borinage and Charleroi regions contributed to the growth of Tamines and surrounding areas.

A notable event in the history of Tamines occurred during World War I. In August 1914, German troops committed atrocities in Tamines and other nearby villages, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. This event, known as the Rape of Belgium, left a lasting scar on the region and is commemorated by memorials in Tamines.

In 1977, as part of a municipal

reorganization in Belgium, Tamines merged with several other communes to form the new municipality of Sambreville. Today, Tamines continues to be part of Sambreville, retaining its historical identity while functioning as a residential and local service center. The economy has diversified, moving away from heavy industry towards a more mixed commercial and service-based sector. The Sambre River remains a prominent geographical feature, influencing the landscape and historical development of the area.