Urban exploration (urbex) is an exciting activity for those who love to discover abandoned and mysterious places. The Doubs , a department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, offers many interesting sites for urbex enthusiasts. This article offers you five must-see sites to explore in the Doubs, each offering a unique adventure into the past.
1: The Rochère Glassworks
History and Significance The Verrerie de la Rochère is a former industrial glassworks dating back to the 18th century. Abandoned for several decades, it has become a fascinating place for urban explorers.
Site Features
- Architecture: Industrial buildings with furnaces, workshops and warehouses.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, with sections still standing.
- Access: Access is prohibited, but guided tours can sometimes be organized.
2: Novillars Psychiatric Hospital
A Medical Vestige The Novillars Psychiatric Hospital was in operation for over a century before its closure. Today, part of the site is abandoned, providing an intriguing setting for urbex.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hospital buildings, treatment rooms, dormitories.
- State of Disrepair: Some sections are well preserved, others are in ruins.
- Safety: Some areas may be unstable, caution is advised.
3: The Ronchamp Silk Mill
An Industrial Relic The Ronchamp Silk Mill is a former abandoned industrial site, once thriving in silk production. Today, it is a fascinating playground for urban explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Large industrial buildings, abandoned machinery, deserted warehouses.
- State of Disrepair: Relatively well preserved, but with signs of disrepair.
- Safety: Caution required due to the condition of the structures.
4: The Fort of Joux
A Military Remains The Fort de Joux , although partially restored and open to the public, has disused sections ideal for urbex. This place, with its rich military history, is a must-see site for urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Military buildings, casemates, underground tunnels.
- State of Disrepair: Some sections are well preserved, others in ruins.
- Safety: Some areas may be unstable, caution recommended.
5: The Montbéliard Foundry
An Industrial Vestige The Montbéliard Foundry is a former major abandoned industrial site, offering a unique perspective on the industrial history of Doubs.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Underground galleries, industrial machines, deserted industrial buildings.
- State of Disrepair: Some structures have collapsed, but many parts remain accessible.
- Safety: Caution required due to risks associated with old industrial installations.
Conclusion
Doubs is a department rich in history and fascinating abandoned sites for urbex enthusiasts. From the Verrerie de la Rochère to the abandoned Belvès train station, via the Couze-et-Saint-Front paper mill and the La Borie sanatorium, each place offers a unique adventure. By respecting the safety rules and the properties, you can experience memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this department. Happy exploring!
