Forges de Buffon, 18th century industrial complex in Buffon, France
The Forges de Buffon is an 18th century industrial complex that spreads across two levels along the Armançon River. The upper level contains residential buildings, while the lower level houses workshops powered by the river's water force.
King Louis XV granted permission in 1768 to establish this metallurgical facility, named after naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc de Buffon. Operations ceased after a devastating flood in 1866.
This forge served as a major center for iron production in the region and attracted skilled craftspeople who employed traditional metalworking methods. The layout with living quarters above and workshops below reveals how closely work and daily life were intertwined for those employed here.
The site is generally open for visitors to explore the workshops and residential areas at their own pace. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is uneven and spread across multiple levels with varying ground conditions.
The grounds still preserve washing stations where iron ore was cleaned before processing, along with the original water-wheel systems. These technical installations demonstrate the extent of hydraulic engineering used in early industrial processes.
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