Forges de Paimpont, Historical smithy in Paimpont, France.
Forges de Paimpont is a smithy complex built with red stone and featuring structures from different periods, located near an artificial lake. The site preserves workshops, storage buildings, and residential structures that reveal the layout of an active metal-working operation.
The site emerged in the 18th century and grew into a major metal processing facility, processing iron ore from Brocéliande forests for over two centuries. Technical changes and shifts in ownership shaped its evolution until the decline of traditional craftwork in the 20th century.
The forge was a center of iron working knowledge passed down through generations and shaped the identity of the local community. The skills practiced here earned the region recognition as a hub of metalworking expertise.
The site opens to visitors mainly during warmer months and requires advance registration to explore the grounds. Guided tours walk through the different buildings and explain metal-working techniques and the daily life of the workers.
Within the restored buildings operates a restaurant serving traditional regional dishes, including wood-fired grills and game from surrounding forests. This surprising blend of historical site and working restaurant shows how the place remains active today.
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