Carmaux, located in the Tarn 18 km north of Albi, has a long history linked to the exploitation of coal which dates back to the 12th century and continued until 1997: the extraction of coal shaped the landscapes and local lifestyles of the Carmaux region, where Jean Jaurès was born.
It is here that the largest former open-pit mine in Europe is located (230 m deep and 1,300 m in diameter), now converted into a multi-leisure resort.
Another site linked to mining history, the Departmental Mine Museum, located in Cagnac-les-Mines, reopens its doors on April 22 after renovation work
Helmet on the head, we take place in the elevator where begins the exploration of the entirely reorganized museum, which immerses its visitors in the daily life of the miners, making discover their living and working conditions.
Modernized and equipped with the latest technologies, the Cagnac mine-museum pays tribute to the history of the “black mouths”: galleries, tools, the immersion is instructive and complete.
An interpretative hiking trail (Balade en sol minor) completes the visit, starting from the museum (easy loop of 4km).
More info online:
Tarn Museums
Destination info:
Midi Toulouse – Occitanie
