Bernissart

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Municipal flag Bernissart
 
Location on map of Belgium
Coat of arms Location of Bernissart in Hainaut
Geography
Country Belgium
Region Flag of Wallonia Wallonia
Community Flag of Wallonia French Community
Province Flag of Hainaut (province) Hainaut
Arrondissement Ath
Coordinates 50°28′N 03°38′E / 50.467, 3.633Coordinates: 50°28′N 03°38′E / 50.467, 3.633
Area 43.42 km²
Population (Source: NIS)
Population
– Males
– Females
- Density
11,458 (January 1, 2006)
48.02%
51.98%
264 inhab./km²
Economy
Unemployment rate 22.21% (January 1, 2006)
Mean annual income 10,828 €/pers. (2003)
Government
Mayor Roger Vanderstraeten
Governing parties PS
Other information
Postal codes 7320-7322
Area codes 069
Web address www.bernissart.be

Bernissart is a Walloon municipality located in the Belgian province of Hainaut. On January 1, 2006 Bernissart had a total population of 11,458. The total area is 43.42 km², which gives a population density of 264 inhabitants per km².

[edit] The Iguanodon mine

In 1878, dozens of Iguanodon skeletons were discovered in a coal mine, 322 m (1,050 ft) below the ground. Their proximity was the first proof that some dinosaurs were herd animals and, since some were preserved in their natural positions, they also proved that at least some dinosaurs were bipedal. They were mounted by Louis Dollo and set the standard that was followed for over a century. The skeletons are currently on display at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.

[edit] External links