Fours à chaux de Vendenesse-lès-Charolles

The lime furnaces of Vendenesse-lès-Charolles are ancient stone and brick structures built to transform limestone into lime through heat. They sit on a flat field surrounded by open countryside, with tall chimneys that are visible from a distance and thick walls that have withstood centuries of use.

The furnaces were built centuries ago to produce lime from limestone, a material essential for construction and agriculture in the region. The site was designated as a protected historic monument in 1998 and underwent restoration work from 1999 to 2002 before opening to the public.

The lime furnaces were the center of village work for centuries and remain a symbol of traditional craftsmanship in Vendenesse-lès-Charolles. The massive stone structures with their tall chimneys stand as a reminder of the labor and skill that shaped local life and building practices.

The site is accessed via marked paths from the village, with parking available nearby and comfortable shoes recommended for walking around the structures. Visits are free or guided, with organized tours available from June through October for groups of up to 15 people when reserved in advance.

A nearby limestone quarry shows where workers once extracted the raw stone needed for the furnaces, giving visitors a complete picture of how lime production worked from start to finish. A marked walking path also connects the site to a natural spring in the area.

Location: Vendenesse-lès-Charolles

GPS coordinates: 46.43206,4.31338

Latest update: January 26, 2026 07:58