Urban exploration, or urbex , attracts many adventurers eager to discover forgotten and often mysterious places. The Yonne department, located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, is home to a multitude of abandoned sites offering unique exploration opportunities. This article presents five must-see urbex sites in the Yonne, each with its own history and distinctive atmosphere.
1: The Engineer's House in Migennes
The Engineer's House in Migennes is an iconic location for urban explorers. Abandoned for several decades, this house once served as a residence for engineers working on the railway lines.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Large house with several rooms, garden overgrown with vegetation.
- State of disrepair: Roof partially collapsed, walls cracked.
- Access: Relatively accessible, but requires caution.
2: The Old Factory in Chablis
The former Chablis factory is a fascinating site for urban explorers. Once used for the production of winemaking equipment, this factory is now abandoned, offering a unique setting for urban exploration.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production buildings, warehouses, abandoned machinery.
- State of disrepair: Structures partially collapsed, equipment rusted.
- Access: Relatively accessible, but beware of fragile structures.
3: The Château de Maulnes
The Château de Maulnes , built in the 16th century, is a must-see urban exploration site in the Yonne region. Although partially restored, a large part of the castle remains abandoned, offering a majestic setting for exploration.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Main buildings, towers, underground.
- State of disrepair: Collapsed walls, overgrown vegetation.
- Access: Partially accessible, beware of unstable structures.
4: The Abandoned Saint-Florentin Train Station
The abandoned Saint-Florentin train station is another popular urban exploration site in the Yonne region. Closed for decades, this station offers an ideal setting for explorers and photographers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Main station building, platforms, disused railway tracks.
- State of disrepair: Dilapidated buildings, roads overgrown with vegetation.
- Access: Accessible with caution, pay attention to the structures.
5: The Saint-Père Sanatorium
The Saint-Père sanatorium , closed for several decades, is a particularly poignant urban exploration site. This former treatment center for respiratory illnesses offers a unique and slightly unsettling atmosphere.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Treatment pavilions, administrative buildings, wide corridors.
- State of disrepair: Dilapidated buildings, abandoned medical equipment.
- Access: Partially accessible, beware of unstable structures.
Conclusion
The Yonne region is brimming with fascinating urban exploration sites, ranging from abandoned houses and ruined castles to factories and sanatoriums. Each site tells a unique story, capturing the imagination of urban explorers. By respecting safety rules and property rights, you can discover these hidden treasures and fully enjoy the urban experience. Happy exploring!
