Musée des Manufactures de Dentelles
About This Museum
Tucked away in the heart of Retournac, right by the old train station, this place is a testament to the town's lifeblood. It doesn't just show you lace; it lets you hear the rhythmic clatter of the Leavers looms that still echo through the workshop. You can almost feel the presence of the generations of women whose nimble fingers built our local reputation for exquisite craftsmanship. Stepping inside is like walking straight into a working factory from a century ago.
Collection Highlights
The star of the show is a fully operational 19th-century Leavers loom, a magnificent and deafeningly complex machine. You'll also find delicate patterns for 'Cluny' and 'Guipure' lace, alongside the personal tools and bobbins of the 'dentellières' themselves.
Visitor Information
It's easy to find on Avenue de la Gare. Do check their opening hours online before you come, as they can be seasonal. And trust me, watching that giant loom in action is something you won't forget.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a solid, unassuming stone building that once served as a genuine lace manufactory, its plain exterior belies the intricate world within.
Contact & Location
Address: Avenue de la Gare, Les Ribes, Retournac, Yssingeaux, Haute-Loire, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France métropolitaine, 43130, France
Phone: +33 4 71 59 41 63
Website: Visit Website
