Hannut is a French-speaking municipality in Wallonia, the southern region of Belgium, located in the province of Liège. It serves as a local administrative and commercial centre for surrounding rural communities and had a population of roughly 14,000 in the early 21st century. Its geographic coordinates are 50°40′N, 05°04′E.
Location and administration
Hannut lies in the central part of the Liège province and is accessible by regional roads linking it to larger cities. The municipality includes the town itself and nearby villages and hamlets; it provides municipal services, local schools and small-scale industry. For official information see the municipal site: Hannut municipality and provincial resources at Liège province.
History and notable events
Hannut developed as a market town and agricultural hub over centuries. It is widely remembered for the Battle of Hannut in May 1940, when armoured units engaged during the German invasion of Belgium and France—an early and significant tank action of the Second World War. Further historical and regional context is available at regional history.
Economy, culture and landscape
The local economy remains influenced by agriculture, food production and small businesses, while weekly markets and fairs reflect traditional commerce. The surrounding landscape is a mix of farmland, small woodlands and village settlements, offering routes for cycling and countryside walks. Tourist and visitor information can be found at visitor services.
Visitors and residents appreciate Hannut for its quiet town centre, market heritage and links to broader historical narratives of the region. The town combines municipal services with rural character typical of Walloon provincial centres.