Espiadet Royal Quarry

Exceptional!
The attested existence of the Espiadet marble quarry in Payolle dates back to Roman times.
Marble was then used for paving and creating baths in thermal baths and decorating wealthy homes.
It was also used for the manufacture of medieval sarcophagi or ex-votos for altars.
Campan marble, which became “Royal Marble” in the time of Louis XIV, is present all over the world.
It has crossed the centuries and left its mark on the most beautiful monuments.
It owes its fame to its different colors which harmonize perfectly!
Since 2004, our association “Les Marbrés de l’Espiadet” has been working to preserve and recognize this exceptional heritage.

We are pleased to welcome you there every summer.
On the operating site, come and discover:
- Magnificent slabs of different colors, green, green-pink, Morello cherry red...
- very high walls with traces of drilling, sawing, etc.
- vestiges, winch, pulleys, cables…
- the history of marble and marble workers
- mining methods and means of transport
Downstream from Payolle, come and see the hydroelectric power station dating from 1913 and its dam (free access).
100 meters from the quarry, the quarrymen's house on the edge of the D918 where the engine and the drive system of the helical cable are still located...