Usine des eaux de Saint-Clair, Water treatment facility and historical monument in Caluire-et-Cuire, France
The Saint-Clair water treatment plant is a water pumping facility in Caluire-et-Cuire featuring a central neoclassical building with two matching wings designed by architect Aristide-François-Marcellin Dumont. The site preserves original steam-powered machinery used to move water from the Rhône River.
Built in 1854, the facility originally operated three Cornouailles steam pumps until 1910 to supply water across the Lyon region. These machines marked a significant step in how cities managed water distribution.
The building reflects how industrial works in the 19th century blended engineering needs with architectural care. Walking through the site, you notice how the symmetrical design and refined details were considered important even for a factory.
Located at 362 Chemin de Wette Fays, the site operates as a functional water facility with limited public access. Plan your visit in advance and check which areas can be viewed, as parts may not be open to general visitors.
A distinctive feature is the preserved Cornouailles pump with its shuttle-shaped balance beam, moving about two cubic meters of water with each stroke. This mechanical engineering marvel from the 19th century reveals how ingeniously early pumping systems were designed.
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