Urban exploration, or urbex , attracts many adventurers eager to discover forgotten and often mysterious places. The Yonne department, located in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, is home to a multitude of abandoned sites offering unique exploration opportunities. This article presents the five must-see urbex sites in Yonne, each with its own history and particular atmosphere.
1: The Engineer's House in Migennes
The Engineer's House in Migennes is an iconic place for urbex enthusiasts. 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, requiring precaution.
2: The Old Factory in Chablis
The old 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 urbex.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production buildings, warehouses, abandoned machinery.
- State of Disrepair: Partially collapsed structures, rusty equipment.
- Access: Relatively accessible, be careful of fragile structures.
3: The Castle of Maulnes
The Château de Maulnes , built in the 16th century, is a must-see urbex site in Yonne. 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, invasive vegetation.
- Access: Partially accessible, beware of unstable structures.
4: The Abandoned Station of Saint-Florentin
The abandoned Saint-Florentin train station is another popular urbex site in Yonne. 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, watch out for structures.
5: The Sanatorium of Saint-Père
The Saint-Père sanatorium , closed for several decades, is a particularly poignant urbex site. This former place of treatment for respiratory diseases offers a unique and slightly disturbing atmosphere.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Care pavilions, administrative buildings, large corridors.
- State of Disrepair: Dilapidated buildings, abandoned medical equipment.
- Access: Partially accessible, beware of unstable structures.
Conclusion
The Yonne is full of fascinating urbex sites, from abandoned houses to ruined castles, factories and sanatoriums. Each site tells a unique story, capturing the imagination of urban explorers. By respecting safety rules and properties, you can discover these hidden treasures and fully enjoy the urban experience. Happy exploring!
