Maison de la Pierre ollaire

About the museum

The building in Champsec was constructed in 1875 by Pierre-François Gard. The Gard family ran a large workshop there that produced stoves of soapstone, called "pierre ollaire" here. From the 17th century to the mid-20th century, the soapstone stove was the most important heater in the Alpine canton of Valais. The workshop operated for less than a century; in 2004 it became a museum.

The stoves from Bocheresse, made in the Val de Bagnes, are called "Bagnards", after the valley's inhabitants. Round, angular and framed models are known for their extraordinary ability to store heat and release it again.

The exhibition playfully explains the geological origins of soapstone and its use since Roman times, and displays objects of different origins and forms. The house is one of the Maisons du Patrimoine of the Musée de Bagnes; the museum's offerings also include a guided visit to the old Bocheresse quarry.

Highlights

• Former soapstone stove workshop from 1875
• The "Bagnards", stoves from Bocheresse with high heat storage
• Playful introduction to the geology and history of soapstone since Roman times
• Part of the Maisons du Patrimoine of the Musée de Bagnes

Permanent exhibition

• Maison de la Pierre ollaire – The exhibition explains the origin, uses and forms of soapstone and shows soapstone stoves and other works.

Founded

2004

Operated by

Musée de Bagnes

Admission & discounts

The 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. Exhibition texts are available in English.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

According to the museum, the exhibition is designed in a playful way; museums.ch lists at least one offer for families or children. Children and young people under 18 have free admission.

Getting there & parking

museums.ch lists parking options. Address: Chemin des Fontaines 13, Champsec.

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