Volcans d'Auvergne Regional Natural Park
Cultural heritage Volcans d'Auvergne Regional Natural Park
Man-made heritage, the treasure of the Auvergne highlands
Man-made heritage is an essential component of Volcans d'Auvergne Regional Natural Park. There are few sectors where you will not find at least some form of construction.
At altitudes above 1,200 m, permanent settlements have disappeared. This is the land of summer pastures and burons, these small stone buildings that were once used to manufacture Auvergne cheese, during the summer months. Above 1,200 m, you will be impacted by the wealth and diversity of the permanent settlements. Roofs covered with lauze, these schistose or slate mineral tiles, or even volcanic rock which decorate the façades of the houses, are just a few features of this rural architecture.
In the course of your walks, do not forget to visit the castles of the Auvergne which will reveal their secrets to you, or even the Romanesque churches which are true architectural jewels. And if you have any time left, wander around the medieval villages and cities of the region: a rich history, local skills and enthusiastic people await you...
