Binche

Binche is a small town in the Belgian Province of Hainaut about 34 miles south of Brussels.

The Carnival de Binche www.carnavaldebinche.be Belgium's most famous carnival, attracts thousands of visitors annually. For three days in February the town of Binche is transported back to the 16th century for one of the most fantastic festivals of the year. Highlighted by music parades and fireworks, the climax of this event is when the Gilles appear on the Grand Place and throw oranges to the spectators. This infamous festivity has been classified as part of the world's cultural heritage by UNESCO along with its renowned Gilles.

• Masks and Carnival Museum (Musée du Masque), 10 Rue Saint-Moustier, ☎ +32 (0)64 33 5741 (reservation@museedumasque.be, fax: +32 (0)64 34 1430), www.museedumasque.be.

• La Louvière est le quartier général de Dragone (réalisateur de grand spectacle nationnaux et internationnaux). Dans la région il est également interressant de signaler le canal du centre comprennant l'ascenceur de Strepy-Bracquenies et les ascenceurs de l'ancien canal du centre. • Deborah P.