Fontaine d'Orchaise, Cave entrance in Valencisse, France
Fontaine d'Orchaise is a cave entrance near Valencisse with two distinct levels and an underground river flowing through the lower section. A reservoir dam marks the opening, where water travels through subterranean passages.
First documented in 1682, the site was initially used for clay extraction, particularly for terra sigillata production. Later it shifted to serving as a water source for the nearby village.
Locals view this entrance as the source of legendary stories about the underground water and its supposed properties. These narratives continue to shape how people today connect with the place and its natural springs.
The entrance is easy to identify from the reservoir dam, which is over 2 meters deep. Visitors should note that the surrounding area is damp and the levels offer different accessibility.
In the late 19th century, a hydraulic ram was installed that lifted water 60 meters upward using only natural water current energy. This device shows how early engineers harnessed the power of the underground stream without external fuel sources.
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