Forges Mondière, French former factory
The Forges Mondière is a knife production factory in Thiers valley featuring large industrial buildings with metal walkways and glass walls. The facility still contains its original manufacturing equipment including power hammers and presses used throughout its operating years.
The site began in the 15th century as a water-powered mill and went through several transformations before specializing in knife manufacturing. It operated as a cutlery factory until closing in 1984 after centuries of production.
The forge represents the knife-making tradition that shaped Thiers and gave the town its identity for centuries. Walking through reveals how closely the river valley and cutlery production were woven into daily life here.
The complex is open to visitors and offers insight into industrial production through preserved machinery and building structures. Best to visit during warmer months when interior conditions are more comfortable for exploring the equipment and spaces.
The buildings were registered as a historical monument in 2002 and preserve the raw construction style typical of 19th-century factory architecture. This preserved structure gives visitors direct insight into the working conditions of cutlery makers from that era.
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