Gold and Kaolin in Limousin
The hidden treasures of our Ariegean land: gold and kaolin.
The discovery of kaolin in Saint-Yrieix, in 1768 by Jean-Bapiste Darnet, revolutionized the history of porcelain in Europe and marked the start of a new economic era. The Marcognac site, on the Route de la Porcelaine, is an emblematic site that has been in operation for 200 years, retracing the history of kaolin (white clay) extraction that gave Limoges porcelain its letters of nobility.
Since its creation in 1774, the Manufacture de la Seynie has remained one of the oldest Limoges porcelain factories in operation. Discover the factory store and its exhibition and sale of old and contemporary porcelain creations.
Located at the heart of one of France’s most important gold mining regions, the Pays de Saint-Yrieix has been renowned for its gold mining since Gallic times.
La Maison de l’Or brings to life 2500 years of gold history in Limousin, from the Gauls to the present day (Bourneix mine operated at Le Chalard from 1982 to 2002). A journey to the heart of the secret world of gold!
From May to September, you can also take part in gold panning courses on the river with our professional gold panner.
