Wallonia

Wallonia is the southern, predominantly French-speaking region of Belgium, and one of the country's three federal regions. It is divided into five provinces: Hainaut, Namur, Liège, Luxembourg, and Brabant Wallon. The regional capital is Namur, while Liège is the largest city and its main economic center.

Geography and population: The region includes the Ardennes in the southeast and the Meuse and Sambre valleys, through which Liège, Charleroi, Mons and Namur are linked. The area features a mix of urban centers and rural landscapes.

Language and communities: The official language is French. A small German-speaking Community in the east, along the border with Germany, has its own parliament and government and exercises cultural and educational autonomy within the Belgian federal system.

Economy: Wallonia shifted from heavy industry, notably coal mining and steel, to a diversified economy. Today its economy emphasizes services, logistics, manufacturing and technology, with Liège and Charleroi as major urban hubs and inland port activity along the Meuse.

History and governance: Wallonia gained formal regional government during Belgium's late-20th-century federal reforms. The Walloon Parliament and the regional government regulate areas such as economy, employment, transport, environment and regional planning, with some competences shared with the federal level and with Flanders. The region cooperates with neighboring zones on cross-border matters.

Culture and notable features: Wallonia has a distinct cultural heritage, with medieval towns, castles and Ardennes landscapes. The region includes spa towns and is known for its gastronomy, particularly beer and waffles.