Charleroi is an important city in southern Belgium, located on the banks of the Sambre River.

1⃣ **History and Geography**: Charleroi was founded in 1666, initially on the left bank of the Sambre River, and later expanded to the right bank. The city is located near rich coal resources. 🌲 2⃣**Industrial Development**: Since the 18th century, Charleroi has experienced rapid industrial development, particularly in the fields of chemicals, electrical machinery, steel, and textiles. Together with Antwerp and Brussels, it forms the industrial axis of Belgium. 🌲 3⃣**City Structure**: Charleroi is divided into two parts, the Upper Town and the Lower Town, connected by a sloping path and surrounded by a one-way ring road. 🌲 4⃣**Culture and Education**: Charleroi is home to educational institutions such as the School of Fine Arts and the Conservatory of Music. 🌲 5⃣**Transformation**: In the late 20th century, Charleroi began to undergo economic transformation due to the decline of the coal and steel industries. The city has preserved its industrial heritage and developed it into a tourist attraction, while vigorously developing industries such as logistics, biotechnology, and space. 🌲 6⃣ **Tourism**: Charleroi has developed several boutique tourist routes, including historical sites, buildings of different artistic styles, industrial revolution sites, and a variety of festivals and outdoor activities. 🚝 7⃣**Population and Language**: Charleroi is the most populous city in the Walloon Region and the fifth most populous city in Belgium. French is the official language, and it is part of the French-speaking community of Belgium. 🌳 🚗 **Transportation**: Charleroi Airport (Brussels South Charleroi Airport) is located in Gosselies, Charleroi, 44 km south of Brussels, and is an important international airport. 🛩 💐Charleroi is not only an important industrial city in Belgium, but also a city with distinctive cultural, educational, and tourism features. 🌹🌹