Spiennes is a village in Wallonia.
This small village contains one of the more obscure entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List in the shape of the Neo-lithic Flint Mines
Spiennes is situated about 5km south of Mons which has a train station and more links to the rest of the region.
The best option to get to Spiennes is to have your own transport/ taxi. If you have your own transport here (dead link: December 2020) is a very useful map on the location of the Neolithic Flint Mines
With public transport: on Sunday take the bus line 134 in the direction MONS-GIVRY-ERQUELINNES-BEAUMONT. Get off in Spiennes.
Spiennes is very small and easily covered on foot.
The mines are not a large tourist attraction and there are only a few signs. They are located in farm land to the West of the village. The only noticeable landmark to head for are the blue containers in the field where you can park. The visitors center is just next to these.
Practicalities
Without appointment: From March to November, on the first Sunday of each month, from 10 to 16 o'clock.
Groups from 10 persons: All the year round, by appointment only, tel: +32 65 35-34-78 or e-mail [mailto:reservations@minesdespiennes.org reservations@minesdespiennes.org]. If you want to have a visit in English, send a short e-mail to the same address listed above.
Costs: Adults €2.5, Children (must be at least 12 years old and accompanied by an adult) €1.25.
The temperature in the mines is constant: from 8° to 10°C. So wear appropriate clothes. Rain-wear would be useful, as would walking or sports shoes, and a pair of trousers.
The tours are run by volunteers and facilities are very basic. The visit includes a descent in the mines, by means of a vertical ladder which is 8 meters high. If you are uncomfortable with an unassisted climb of 8 meters or are claustrophobic then a visit would need extra consideration. However the welcome is very warm and you will receive a more thorough experience than at many other tourist sites.
Mons is the nearest place that has hotels.