In the heart of the Aveyron gorges, visit the Ramonde mill, one of the Lézert swifts! Discover a remarkable heritage through an unusual visit offered by enthusiasts.
There were 13 of them, several centuries ago, a few kilometers from Villefranche de Rouergue , nestled in the gorges of the Aveyron and for a long time set the rhythm of life for the inhabitants of the village of La Bastide l'Evêque and the Ségala.
But what are we talking about? Swifts from Lézert!
Today, thanks to the association of passionate locals, this heritage is revived and the hammer of the Ramonde water hammer proudly resounds in the valley!
By following the small narrow road, you will be able to see, at the bend of a bend, a building surrounded by greenery... Stop, and take the time to get to know this unique heritage in the region.
At the beginning of the visit, a film retraces the history of the valley's mills and the reconstruction of this trip hammer, then follow the guide to the forge to discover the immense hammer that works thanks to the force of water and that hammers copper to make coins, cauldrons or even tools…
How does it work ?
The building that houses the forge is right next to a water reservoir. When it is released, it drives a huge paddle wheel which gives its strength to an ingenious mechanism... Enter the room, feel the ground tremble to the rhythm of the regular strikes of the hammer.
Here, volunteers take turns reviving this ancient craft : in one corner, a brazier heats the copper; the hotter it gets, the redder it becomes! Then it's shaped under the blows of a heavy hammer weighing over 200 kg… A few minutes later, a cauldron is complete. A journey back in time that allows you to see these artisans at work!
In groups or as a family, take advantage of being in the heart of nature to have a picnic in the park… Discover the wild flowers that grow there, listen to the birdsong and have a nice time in the shade of the trees!
