Moselle , a department located in the Grand Est region of France, is rich in industrial and military history. These remains constitute exciting playgrounds for fans of urban exploration, or urbex . This article presents five must-see urbex sites in Moselle, each offering a unique and memorable experience.
1: The Neufchef Iron Mine
An Underground Industrial Vestige The Neufchef iron mine is an emblematic site of the industrial history of Moselle. Abandoned for several decades, this mine offers a mysterious and captivating atmosphere for urban explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Underground galleries, mine shafts, surface buildings.
- State of Disrepair: The galleries are relatively well preserved, but some surface buildings are in ruins.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the industrial atmosphere and underground structures.
- Exploration: Discover the abandoned galleries and machines.
2: The Fort of Guentrange
A Witness to Military History The Fort of Guentrange , built by the Germans between 1899 and 1906, is an impressive military complex. Although some parts are accessible to the public, other sections remain unexplored and perfect for urbex.
Site Features
- Architecture: Fortifications, casemates, underground passages.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are well preserved, others in ruins.
- Access: Visits are permitted for certain sections, but others require discretion.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing military architecture and historical atmosphere.
- Exploration: Discover less accessible areas and delve into the history of the fort.
3: The Knutange Steelworks
An Industrial Memory The former Knutange steelworks is an abandoned industrial site that bears witness to the region's steelmaking past. This place offers a special atmosphere for urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Blast furnaces, production buildings, warehouses.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some parts remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the industrial atmosphere and the remains of machinery.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the factory and imagine the life of the workers.
4: The Grange Castle
A Mysterious Castle The once majestic Château de la Grange is now partly abandoned. This place is steeped in history and offers a unique experience for urbex.
Site Features
- Architecture: 17th century castle with outbuildings and gardens.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are in ruins, others still standing.
- Access: Visits are permitted for certain sections, but others require discretion.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing elegant architecture and neglected gardens.
- Exploration: Delve into the history of the castle and imagine the lives of the former residents.
5: The Sarreguemines Psychiatric Hospital
An Abandoned Hospital The former psychiatric hospital of Sarreguemines is a fascinating site, witness to ancient medical practices. Closed for decades, this place offers an atmosphere that is both disturbing and captivating.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hospital buildings, dormitories, treatment rooms.
- State of Disrepair: Partially in ruins, some parts remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the medical atmosphere and the remains of equipment.
- Exploration: Discover the different rooms and the stories of former patients.
Conclusion
Moselle offers a multitude of fascinating urbex sites for urban exploration enthusiasts. From the Neufchef iron mine to the Sarreguemines psychiatric hospital, including the Guentrange fort and the Knutange steelworks, each location 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!
