ATTENTION: The Grande Forge will be closed from Monday 21 August to Saturday 26 August inclusive due to the filming of the TV mini-series "Une amitié dangereuse".
A prestigious example of the iron and steel industry in the Age of Enlightenment, this model factory, which employed 300 workers, combines all the production operations, the workers' dwellings and the master's house on the same site. Built in 1768 by the naturalist Buffon, who used the site for his experiments on smelting, the Forge produced 450 tonnes of iron bars in the 18th century.
A visit to the blast furnace with its ceremonial staircase, the forge with its bellows activated by a paddle wheel, and the splitting plant will enable you to follow the various stages in the transformation of cast iron into iron.
Exhibitions in Buffon's pavilion and the Barn of Forty Oxen, accompanied by 2 films (a docu-drama about Buffon and the work of iron production). The orangery, the garden (former kitchen garden of Buffon's workers), the dovecote and the workers' lodgings are only open during events such as the Rendez-Vous aux Jardins and the Heritage Days (reduced price) or for groups all year round by prior arrangement.
The Grande Forge de Buffon has been given a makeover
This masterpiece of 18th- century industrial heritage was built by the famous naturalist, the Count of Buffon. The listed Historic Monument boasts one-of-a-kind architecture across both the domestic and industrial sections of the building. The huge water wheel was recently restored and is a highlight of the visit.
French, English
Credit card, Cheques and postal orders, Holiday vouchers, Currencies, Cash, Eurocard - Mastercard, Bank transfers, Visa
Pets welcome
Amenities
Film projection room
Services
Shop
Activity
Specific theme activities
Temporary exhibitions
Prices & SchedulesOpening :
Open from 6 April to 3 November 2024, every day except Tuesday, from 10am to 12.30pm and from 2.30pm to 6pm. In July and August, open continuously every day from 10am to 6pm.
Prices :
Other rate (Reduced rate for 12/18 year olds, students, job seekers)
Rate for large families (On presentation of the cards)
Other rate (partnership with Fontenay Abbey, the Château d'Ancy le Franc and the Maison du Visiteur in Vezelay, presenting tickets for these sites)
Other rate (Reduced rate for visitors staying at the VVF Semur, the Montbard campsite)
