Puy de Lemptégy: A Journey into the Heart of a Volcano

Puy de Lemptégy presents a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of a volcano. Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, this volcano is part of the Chaîne des Puys, a chain of volcanoes recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Born approximately 30,000 years ago, Puy de Lemptégy was formed through Strombolian eruptions, characterized by moderately explosive activity. Over time, the volcano's rich deposits of pozzolana, a volcanic rock, led to its exploitation as a quarry starting in 1946. For about 60 years, mining operations reshaped the volcano, creating a unique cross-section that reveals its internal structure.Today, Puy de Lemptégy is a natural museum, offering guided tours that delve into the volcano's geological history and the story of its industrial past. Visitors can choose between exploring the site on foot or taking a guided tour on a small train. The tour includes interactive exhibits, demonstrations of old mining machinery, and immersive experiences that showcase the formation of the Chaîne des Puys. A 4D film, "Aux Origines", allows visitors to experience a flight over the volcanoes of Auvergne and relive the history of the volcano.