Established in 2002, the Fonds Belval is a public institution responsible for developing state facilities on the former steelworks site in Belval, Esch-sur-Alzette. It contributes to the Cité des Sciences, de la Recherche et de l’Innovation, a district bringing together higher education, research, cultural activities and contemporary architecture.
Its role goes beyond new construction. The Fonds Belval also manages, maintains and adapts the infrastructure it develops. Its work forms part of a major regeneration project in which the preservation and promotion of industrial heritage play an essential role.
Steelmaking heritage at the heart of a new district
Following the closure of the last blast furnace in 1997, the former industrial site underwent extensive transformation. Blast furnaces A and B, built in 1965 and 1970 respectively, were preserved alongside several associated structures. As the last remaining blast furnaces in Luxembourg, they are now defining landmarks of Belval.
The redevelopment brings these industrial remains together with new buildings and public spaces. The Möllerei, formerly used to store iron ore and coke, has been restored and incorporated into the site’s heritage visitor route.
Opening up industrial heritage to the public
The Fonds Belval offers self-guided and guided tours of the blast furnace, visits exploring the Cité des Sciences, and activities for school groups and families. The visitor route reaches the charging platform at a height of 40 metres, providing an insight into how the former steelworks operated.
The exhibition “La Cité des Sciences”, located in the Maison de l’Innovation, traces the history of Belval’s redevelopment. Cultural events, including the Fête des Hauts Fourneaux and evening openings, also help make this heritage accessible and bring the site to life.
Main missions
· Design and develop public infrastructure for the Cité des Sciences
· Manage, maintain and adapt the buildings it develops
· Preserve and promote the remains of the site’s steelmaking past
· Share Belval’s industrial history and redevelopment through visits, exhibitions and events
In Belval, industrial heritage is more than a reminder of the past. It remains an integral part of the identity and everyday life of a district that continues to evolve.
More information: fonds-belval.lu
