LA GRANDE FORGE DE BUFFON
The aim of the Grande Forge was to apply Buffon's discoveries about metal on a large scale.
Burgundy in general and the Côte d'Or in particular are marked by great men, whether in the artistic and literary fields, in religion or in science... The scientific field was largely occupied by the Comte de Buffon (1707-1788), author of L'Histoire naturelle (36 volumes!) and creator of the superb Grande Forge de Buffon building. Built in 1768, its purpose was to apply Buffon's discoveries about metal on a large scale. And it's in this enchanting spot, where the Brenne and Armançon rivers meet, that a blast furnace, a refinery and a splitting mill were brought together... In short, a true industrial complex, bringing together for the first time all three stages of production in the same space! The building, which has been in the same family for 6 generations, was a cement works for almost 50 years and became a historic monument in 1943. You can visit it and discover "le théâtre de Buffon": a monumental staircase on which visitors used to sit to watch the cast iron being poured! A spellbinding spectacle of sparks and fire. What's more, during certain events or in groups, you can visit the beautiful gardens!
The Grande Forge de Buffon, which celebrated the 250th anniversary of its construction in 2018, is a monument not to be missed.
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Le pavillon de Buffon est d'une simplicité étonnante contrairement à l'escalier monumental qui mène à la halle de coulée.
Il ne faut pas manquer l'exposition sur la restauration de cet ensemble qui relate tout le chemin parcouru et le travail effectué pour conserver ces infrastructures.
Un bémol, il est difficile de capter l'attention des plus jeunes, aucune animation ou attraction à leur intention. La visite est donc vite effectuée avec des enfants.