In the 18th century, Montolieu, a picturesque and charming medieval village perched on a rocky spur between the Dure and Alzeau gorges, like the surrounding villages, enjoyed economic prosperity with the textile and paper industries. Numerous mills were powered by the sometimes capricious streams that tumbled down from the Montagne Noire. The rural exodus of the 19th century signaled the decline of the paper industry, the Manufacture Royale de Draps, and the agricultural and wine-growing industries. In the early 90s, Michel Braibant, a bookbinder in Carcassonne, dreamed of bringing the deserted streets back to life. He conceived a crazy project: to dedicate the village to the world of publishing and graphic arts. Since then, booksellers, second-hand booksellers, publishers, craftsmen and artists have played their part, giving new meaning to Montolieu, which has become a Village du Livre et des Arts. The village, located 17 kilometers northwest of Carcassonne, welcomes several thousand visitors each year, from the curious to experienced readers and collectors. Activities and educational workshops organized throughout the year, as well as visits to the Musée des Arts et Métiers du Livre, enable visitors to discover the work of calligraphers, bookbinders and engravers, as well as the manufacture of books and paper. A number of artists have also joined the initiative, giving fresh impetus to this unique project, notably through the Cérès Franco Museum Cooperative, with its exceptional collection of art brut. A fine example of reconversion and valorization of local heritage.

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Le Pont du Diable, aux environs de Montolieu PHOVOIR

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