Forges royales de la Chaussade, Royal smithy in Guérigny, France.
The Royal Forges of Guérigny form a metallurgical complex with blast furnaces, worker housing, barns, and stables arranged within its grounds. These historical structures reveal how a major production facility was organized and operated centuries ago.
The forges began in the 17th century and later became a center for anchor production under Pierre Babaud de La Chaussade serving the Royal Navy. The facility played a significant role in French naval development through its specialized metal manufacturing.
The museum displays how workers lived and labored in metalworking, documenting their craft techniques from centuries past.
Today the site operates as a museum and exhibition space housed within the former industrial buildings with various displays. Visitors can walk the grounds and view both the exterior and interior of the structures at their own pace.
The facility sourced ore from Villatte and wood from four separate forests to maintain its metal production output. This elaborate supply chain demonstrates how specialized factories obtained raw materials across considerable distances.
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