Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

La tilerie de la Bellevelle is a former tile factory located in the commune of Saint-Martin-la-Patrouille, in Saône-et-Loire (Bourgogne-Franche-Comté). Built in the 19th century, it reflects the local industrial activity associated with the production of building materials, typical of the rural areas of that time. Its architecture combines functional elements such as tile ovens and a hipped roof, reflecting the craft techniques of the era.

The site consists of two main buildings: one housing two ovens, one of which has an arched opening in a basket handle protected by an awning, while the other was once surmounted by a pyramid hood that is now extinct. These structures, which are covered by a long roof with appentis, illustrate traditional cooking methods. The tilery was partially preserved by its inscription as historic monuments on 10 May 2005, specifically protecting the drying shed and the oven building.

Registration for historic heritage underscores the importance of this site as a vestige of the regional tile industry, a major activity for 19th century rural communities. These tiles supplied materials for local constructions, playing a key role in the economic and urban development of Burgundy. Today, although its state of conservation and accessibility are not detailed, the Bellevelle tilery remains a remarkable example of the French industrial heritage.

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