The Salins-les-Bains saltworks is a historic salt extraction facility located in Salins-les-Bains, France. It was declared a historic monument of France with two decrees in 1957 and 2009. In 2009, it was also included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, along with the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans. The saltworks has been exploited since the Middle Ages, and possibly even earlier.
The Salins-les-Bains saltworks complex includes three buildings: the salt deposits, the Amont well building, and an old housing. It is connected to the Arc-et-Senans saltworks by two canals that are 21 km long. These canals were used to transport slightly salty water from Salins.
Today, the Salins-les-Bains saltworks has been transformed into a museum. Visitors can admire all the tools of the trade, some photos of the time, and even a documentary film from the early 20th century, when the establishment was still in operation. This provides a unique insight into the history and process of salt extraction.
History & Anthropology
From November to March: 10am to 12pm ; 2pm to 5:30pm
From April to October: 9:30 am to 6pm
From July to August: 9:30 am to 7pm
Place des Salines 3, Salins-les-Bains
No exhibitions in La Grande Saline have been found.
La Grande Saline has 1 rating.
La Grande Saline in Salins-les-Bains, France, offers visitors an informative journey through the history of salt production. This former salt works, now a museum, provides a glimpse into the industrial heritage of the region. Visitors can explore the underground galleries and learn about the salt extraction process that was vital to the area's economy for centuries. The guided tours are generally praised for being educational and engaging, explaining the historical significance of salt and its impact on the local community. The museum features well-preserved machinery and tools, giving a tangible sense of the working conditions in the past. Some visitors note that the tour can be quite long and involves a fair amount of walking, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues. The museum's location in the picturesque town of Salins-les-Bains adds to the overall experience, though some find the entry fee a bit high. While the content is rich in historical value, a few reviewers mention that more interactive exhibits or English translations would enhance the experience for international tourists.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.