Discover Thiers through its cutlery craftsmanship and the traces it has left across the town. Collections, contemporary art, former workplaces along the Durolle and a medieval town centre offer different ways to explore. When planning your visit, consider whether you are most interested in the development of the craft, its working conditions or today’s art scene.

Cutlery craftsmanship from its origins to the present day

The Musée de la Coutellerie traces the social and economic history of cutlery-making, from its artisanal beginnings to the start of industrialisation. Its 700 exhibits document knife styles, techniques and materials from the 16th century to the present day. You can explore both the development of the craft and the different forms its products have taken.

The museum hosts temporary exhibitions, creative workshops, events and talks throughout the year. As the programme may change, check in advance which exhibitions and dates fit your travel plans. The Cité des couteliers offers a glimpse of contemporary cutlery craftsmanship and 21st-century innovations, complementing the historical perspective with current developments in the field.

Industrial history on foot along the Durolle

In the Vallée des Rouets, two trails follow the Durolle in the footsteps of the historic émouleurs, or knife grinders. Together, they are 3 kilometres long. At “chez Lyonnet”, you can get a special insight into their former work: it is home to the last working grinding wheel. Visitors can see the wheel in operation and learn about the working conditions of the émouleurs. The Vallée des Rouets site is open to visitors free of charge all year round; as access arrangements may change, check the conditions before your visit.

Another way to explore the area’s industrial history is the Sentier d’interprétation Vallée des Usines, a walking trail along the Durolle. Follow it to discover traces of former cutlery workshops. Bear the steep slopes in mind when planning your visit; sturdy footwear is recommended. The trails therefore differ not only in their focus, but also in the practical advice to keep in mind when visiting the Vallée des Usines.

Town centre, art and views

The medieval discovery trail runs through the town centre, which is designated as a protected historic area. Features include timber-framed houses with carved details and hôtels particuliers. If you are interested in architectural styles and the historic character of the town, this offers a different focus from the former workplaces in the valley. The Belvédère du Rempart also offers a view of the Chaîne des Puys.

Contemporary art is another part of Thiers’ cultural scene. Founded in 1988, the Centre d’art contemporain du Creux de l’Enfer is housed in an extraordinary industrial building above the Durolle. Its annual programme includes solo and group exhibitions, discussion series, talks, educational activities and special public events. The programme changes, so check in advance what is taking place during your trip.

Each attraction offers a different focus: the Musée de la Coutellerie explores the craft’s long history and development, while the Cité des couteliers showcases contemporary work. The Vallée des Rouets brings historic working conditions to life at the working grinding wheel; the Sentier d’interprétation Vallée des Usines leads to traces of former cutlery workshops. You can plan your stay around the topic that interests you most and choose cultural activities or walks to match.

Discover more destinations: Vergheas, Blot-l'Église, Courpière, Ardes, La Tour-D'auvergne, Pionsat, Billom, Saint-Nectaire.

For the broader travel guide: Puy-De-Dôme.