Attractions and Places To See around Voulgézac - Top 20

Why visit the Meulières de Claix in Périgord? For the historical heritage: The site is a fascinating example of the importance of millstones in the agricultural economy of past centuries. For the natural setting: Located in a quiet forest environment, the Meulières de Claix offer an ideal opportunity to walk and discover the nature of Périgord while learning about the local past. For the geological aspect: Geology enthusiasts will appreciate the study of the millstone rock, its unique characteristics, and its ingenious exploitation. The Meulières de Claix in Périgord are a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers, offering a perfect blend of industrial heritage and geological discovery.

Remains of the quarries: Today, the old quarries of Claix are still visible, offering a unique glimpse into industrial exploitation and the extraction techniques of the time. A natural and historical site: Walks and discoveries: The millstone site is accessible on foot via paths that cross the surrounding forest. It is a perfect place for a walk in the heart of nature while discovering a part of local history. Preserved landscapes: The millstones are nestled in a preserved natural environment, where one can also observe the fauna and flora of the Périgord. Memory of artisanal activity: Visible traces: Traces of old extractions can still be observed on the site, such as cut or abandoned stone blocks, and cavities that bear witness to the intense past artisanal activity. Economic importance: The production of millstones greatly contributed to the prosperity of the region for several centuries, due to the importance of mills for agriculture and flour production.

The Meulières de Claix in Périgord are a site of historical and heritage importance. These millstone quarries, once used to make millstones, are a precious testament to mineral exploitation in Périgord. Points of interest at Meulières de Claix en Périgord: Exploitation of millstones: Manufacturing of millstones: The stones extracted from the quarries were used to make millstones, which were used to grind grain in mills. This industry was essential to the local economy, particularly during the Middle Ages and up to the 19th century. Quality stone: The millstone rock from Claix was particularly prized for its hardness and durability, making it a material of choice for the region's millers. Geological heritage: Characteristics of millstone rock: Millstone rock is a porous siliceous rock with an ideal texture for grinding. Its wear resistance allowed for the production of high-quality millstones, used in water or windmills.

The extraordinary history of this grandiose residence began in 1924, in the heart of a small 19th century manor (to the left of the current façade): the troubadour castel of La Mercerie was then acquired by Alphonse and Raymond Réthoré. From then on, the two brothers, dreaming of the great Versailles, devoted all their resources to enlarging and embellishing the building. The work undertaken is commensurate with the ambition that drives it. Outside, colonnades and balusters in white stone soon extend the first building. the cut stone increases the gigantism and the rigor of a facade with a perfect rhythm. Inside, nothing is too beautiful for La Mercerie, Raymond brings back from his travels furniture and paintings, chandeliers and precious woods, marbles from Italy, azulejos from Portugal etc. He returns from Italy with a painter sculptor who will carry out on the spot the most monumental decorations with the assistance of the inhabitants of the country. The treasures are piling up, but 30 years of work will not be enough to complete the colossal project. The collections are dispersed during auctions in June 1987. When the two brothers died, the castle fell into oblivion, until the mobilization of the inhabitants of the town, who decided to found an association to safeguard this unique and prestigious heritage. The Béruges room, the central living room, the Vernet living room, the vestibule, the mahogany gallery and the large Azulejos gallery, each more impressive than the last, now fully conquers the visitor eager for cultural discoveries. A short tour of the belvedere of the castle allows you to admire it from the height. In the park of the castle, the rose garden and the arboretum can be visited by little train. The little train is random due to the health context and will be reserved for people with reduced mobility and children, and mainly on Sundays.

This beautiful valley is classified as a Site of European Interest due to its limestone cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. The southern slopes are dry grassland which favors a warmer climate, while the northern slopes and valley floor are cooler and wetter. As a natural climbing site, it is known all over the world.

This beautiful valley is classified as a Site of European Interest due to its limestone cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. The southern slopes are dry grassland which favors a warmer climate, while the northern slopes and valley floor are cooler and wetter. As a natural climbing site, it is known all over the world.

Pretty castle in height after a climb from Angoulême

Its dazzling white stone facade extends over 220 meters in length, in the middle of a 50 Ha green setting. Some rare and remarkable trees adorn the walk through the park.