Maison de la Pierre ollaire

About the museum

The building in Champsec was constructed by Pierre-François Gard in 1875; the Gard family house contained a large workshop for stoves made of soapstone (pierre ollaire). The business operated for less than a century and was converted into a museum in 2004. The word "ollaire" goes back to the Latin word for pot.

From the 17th century to the mid-20th century, soapstone stoves were the most important heating method in the alpine canton of Valais. The stoves made from Bocheresse in the Val de Bagnes are called "Bagnards", after the valley's inhabitants, and are round or angular, also mounted on frames. They are known for their extraordinary ability to store heat and release it again.

The exhibition playfully explores the geological origins of soapstone, its use since Roman times, and works of various origins and forms. The house belongs to the Musée de Bagnes and is one of the four "Maisons du Patrimoine" (heritage houses) in the valley.

Highlights

• Soapstone stoves known as "Bagnards" from the Val de Bagnes
• Playful introduction to the geology and use of soapstone since Roman times
• Former stove workshop of the Gard family, built in 1875

Permanent exhibition

• Maison de la Pierre ollaire – Playful exhibition on the origin, use and design of soapstone and the soapstone stoves of the Val de Bagnes.

Founded

2004

Operated by

Musée de Bagnes

Admission & discounts

Admission applies to the Musée de Bagnes in Le Châble and all Maisons du Patrimoine. Free with Raiffeisen MemberPlus, the Swiss Museum Pass, ICOM, ICOMOS, Abobo, AG Culturel, VIP Pass and CarteCulture Caritas. A PASS Musée & Patrimoine can be borrowed from the Bagnes library and gives free access to the museum and the Maisons du Patrimoine.

Accessibility

• Partially wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

According to the museum, the historic buildings with small rooms and stairs make visits difficult for people with limited mobility. Videos and audio stations at the Musée de Bagnes are transcribed in writing; exhibition texts are available in English.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The house is located in the village of Champsec in the Val de Bagnes.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit