Site des Malécots, Mining heritage site in Chaudefonds-sur-Layon, France
Malécots site is a former coal mining complex in Chaudefonds-sur-Layon with two underground shafts and an exposed geological trench. The location reveals rock layers and volcanic formations that developed across different time periods.
Coal extraction at this site began in the 15th century and concluded in 1964 following centuries of continuous operation. The shafts were progressively deepened to reach coal seams located further underground.
The Malécots site stands within the UNESCO World Heritage area of the Corniche Angevine, representing the industrial heritage of the Loire Valley.
Visitors can explore one restored shaft featuring a wooden headframe structure, while the other shaft remains closed for safety. An observation platform provides orientation tables to guide exploration of the mining installations.
A wooden headframe restored in 2008 provides an observation point with orientation tables overlooking the geological formations and mining structures.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
