A legacy of
architecture
SPARKOH!: a place steeped in history
An ambitious project
The story of SPARKOH! is deeply rooted in Wallonia’s industrial heritage. In the early 1990s, an ambitious vision emerged: to breathe new life into the former Crachet-Picquery coal mine in Frameries, at the heart of the Borinage region. At a time when the region was seeking renewal, the Walloon Region and the European Union launched an ambitious project to transform this former industrial site into a major centre for scientific, technological and industrial culture.
Following a European design competition, internationally renowned French architect Jean Nouvel was selected to oversee the site’s urban planning, architecture and rehabilitation while preserving its rich history.
He masterfully integrated iconic examples of 1950s industrial architecture, including the Headframe, the Machine room and the Belvedere, all listed as protected heritage since 1989. This bold blend of history and modernity makes SPARKOH! a truly unique destination. The famous 210-metre footbridge, which connects the exhibition spaces, is a direct reference to the former coal mine’s operations, symbolising the link between the mining past and the future of science and technology. The construction programme was later continued by architect Laurent Niget.
A historic site
Coal was already being extracted by hand on the site.
The industrialisation of coal mining began.
The Crachet-Picquery site became one of the Borinage’s major coal mining concessions. Thousands of men and women shaped the history of the site, working in its shafts until its closure in 1960.
Following the Second World War, the mine modernised its facilities, including the construction of the Machine Hall and the impressive steel headframe, rising 64 metres high.
The coal mine permanently ceased operations.
The Headframe, Machine Hall and Belvedere were officially listed as industrial heritage by the Walloon Region.
Plans to create a scientific and technical culture centre for Wallonia took shape. In 1997, renowned architect Jean Nouvel was selected to lead the redevelopment of the former mining site.
The PASS (Science Adventure Park) officially opened in May 2000 with support from the European Union’s Objective 1 Hainaut programme.
PASS officially became SPARKOH!. The new name combines Science Park with the idea of a spark of knowledge. The “OH!” reflects the sense of wonder and excitement experienced by visitors.
And now ?
Ready to explore the science around you ?
Science and technology are not confined to books, schools or workplaces—they are everywhere in our daily lives.
At SPARKOH! (formerly PASS), discovery becomes an adventure.
Our mission is to spark scientific curiosity in visitors of all ages and encourage reflection on the major challenges facing our society. Through interactive exhibitions and passionate science communicators, visitors leave with a better understanding of the world—and perhaps even the inspiration for a future career in science or technology.
SPARKOH! guarantees a full day of discovery, fun and exploration for all ages. It is the perfect destination for families, schools and groups.
Come and experience it for yourself: scientifically proven emotions!
And to make the experience even more special, you’ll be visiting an exceptional site: the former Crachet-Picquery coal mine, a remarkable architectural landmark in Wallonia, near Mons and Frameries.
