The Stone of Crazannes

The Stone of Crazannes, a white limestone, is a characteristic feature of the Saintonge region. It is extracted from quarries located around Crazannes, which is approximately ten kilometers north of the city of Saintes. These quarries, most of which have not been exploited since the mid-20th century, are now a site of tourist interest.

Museum and Guided Tours at the Crazannes Quarries

The museum at the site presents the history of the Crazannes quarries and the profession of quarryman. Since 1997, it has been offering guided tours in the quarries. Visitors can explore the old quarry along a marked trail, which includes stairs built specifically for this purpose.

The Lapidiales: A Site for Sculptors

Adjacent to the quarry of the Stone of Crazannes is the site of the Lapidiales. This site is dedicated to sculptors who work on their creations during the summer. They shape their works on extracted blocks or directly on the wall of the abandoned quarry, making it a unique attraction for visitors.