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Boussu

Boussu-dlé-Mont  (Picard)
Boussu 050817 (32).jpg
Flag of Boussu
Flag
Coat of arms of Boussu
Coat of arms
Boussu is located in Belgium
Boussu
Boussu
Location in Belgium
Country Belgium
Community French Community
Region Wallonia
Province Hainaut
Arrondissement Mons
Area
 • Total 20.01 km2 (7.73 sq mi)
Population
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 • Total Lua error in Module:Wd at line 1,575: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value).
Postal codes
7300, 7301
Area codes 065
Website www.boussu.be

Boussu is a town in Wallonia, a region in Belgium. It's located in the Hainaut province.

As of January 1, 2006, about 20,058 people lived in Boussu. The total area of the town is 20.01 square kilometers. This means there are about 1,002 people living in each square kilometer.

The municipality of Boussu includes two main areas: Boussu itself and a nearby district called Hornu.

What's in a Name? The Story of Boussu

The name "Boussu" is very old, just like its neighbor, Hornu. Records from the past show it was called by different names like Buxutum, Bussuth, and Bossut.

Where Did the Name Come From?

The name "Boussu" comes from a Latin word, buxus. This word means "boxwood." So, Boussu means "the place with lots of boxwood trees."

A Look Back: The History of Boussu

Boussu has a long and interesting history. It was an important place even in the Middle Ages.

The Hénin Family and Boussu Castle

During the late Middle Ages, a powerful family called the House of Hénin lived here. They built the impressive Boussu Castle. Many important members of this family are buried in the local church. One of the most famous is Maximilien II de Hénin, 5th Count of Bossu.

Boussu 050817 (20)
A memorial for Thierry de Hennin Liétard (1406–1430) inside the church.

Industry and Grand Hornu

In the 1800s, industries grew in Boussu. A special industrial town was built, known as le Grand Hornu. This area is now a museum where you can learn about its history.

Famous People from Boussu

Some well-known people have come from Boussu:

  • Marcel Moreau, a writer.
  • Massimo Bruno, a footballer who has played for Belgium's youth teams.
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