Les Martinets du Lézert à La Bastide l'Evêque

In the heart of the Aveyron gorges and the Lezert valley lies a historical savoir-faire… During your visit of la Bastide l'Evêque, come and discover the copper foundries. Meet passionate people that brought back to life "martinaïres" !

The copper foundries of La Bastide l'Evêque existed in the 14th century and stopped working in the 19th century. The name "martinet" refers to the water powered hammer used in the foundry. Here, copper was beaten out into "coupes noires" (black cups) which were then sent to be finished elsewhere, including to coppersmiths in Villefranche. In these foundries, the copper was used to make tools for the coppersmiths.

Although it was forgotten for a long time, the Martinet association decided to bring back to life these martinets along with their incredible history and savoir-faire. This remarkable human adventure was led by passionate inhabitants that worked together for hours and hours to bring back the martinet. Nowadays, the sound of the foundries echoes again in the Lezert valley !

Open all year round for group visits by reservation, from 1st May to 30th June on Sundays and public holidays from 3-6pm and from 1st July to 30th September on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays and public holidays from 3-6pm.