Ancient trades present on the Guédelon site

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At the heart of the Guédelon adventure is a journey back in time through the ancient trades that were central to the construction of the medieval castle. Preserving and passing on the skills of these craftsmen is essential to the realisation of this ambitious project, which reinvents the techniques and know-how of the Middle Ages in a tangible way.

One of the most emblematic trades on this site is that of stonemason. The craftsmen working on the site use traditional techniques to extract and shape the local limestone. They wield tools such as chisels and hammers, reflecting the precision and expertise required in this discipline. The hand-cut stones are then assembled to form the majestic walls of the château. The skills passed down from one mason to the next bear witness to the continuity of the craft through the ages.

Another fundamental trade is that of the blacksmith. In a dedicated area, the blacksmith creates and repairs the tools used by the other craftsmen. His movements are precise, and he has an impressive mastery of metal, which he shapes with the heat of fire. It's fascinating to see ironwork in action and to learn how this craftsman plays a crucial role in the success of the entire site.

The castle's roof is another central aspect that requires specific know-how. The roofing craftsmen work not only with tiles, but also with thatch roofing, an ancient technique often forgotten today. Natural elements are used to carefully interlock the tiles, providing resistance to the elements while preserving the authenticity of the medieval architecture.

The leather and textile trades also have their place at Guédelon. Craftsmen in the shoe-making and clothing trades are reviving age-old techniques, such as making leather shoes for the workers on the site. The fabrics used for clothing are carefully selected to reflect the lifestyles and practices of the period.

And let's not forget the profession of artisan builder, which encompasses several skills. The builders - masons, carpenters, stonemasons - work together, united by a common goal: to erect a building that respects ancient methods while being part of a living, evolving project. Their collective know-how is an invaluable asset in the construction of the château.

Guédelon is more than just a building site; it's a living school. Every craftsman present on the site passes on their skills to trainees and curious visitors, ensuring that these ancient trades continue to be valued. Training courses and workshops are offered on a regular basis, introducing new craftsmen to medieval techniques and ensuring that these skills are perpetuated.

In short, Guédelon is a living symbol of the wealth of ancient crafts. Thanks to the passionate people who are working on this project, every stone laid, every frame erected and every piece of stone-setting is testimony to a skill that has endured through the centuries. Guédelon is a reminder not only of the importance of medieval architecture, but also of the importance of promoting the crafts that are an integral part of our cultural heritage.