Musee Du Fer Et Du Chemin De Fer

Since 1495 the 'Grandes Forges' has been the fire burning at the heart of Vallorbe, contributing greatly to the wealth of the town. Classed a historic monument, this exceptional location has housed a museum dedicated to the ironwork industry and railways, since 1980 (both of which have played a crucial role in the development of the town). To visit the museum, a mobile app' is available in English, German and French. On first visiting the ironworks the picturesque charm of the medieval quarter of Vallorbe is immediately captivating. Drawing closer...attention is quickly diverted by the six magnificent water wheels supplying energy to the workshop machinery. The ancient working forge is the central attraction...mysterious, atmospheric, a scene from times gone by. The dexterity and imagination of the blacksmiths both delight and fascinate. An audio-visual presentation of the history of iron... videos and the superb museum collections, reveal the beauty of the ancient professional crafts of Vallorbe. On the second floor the entire saga of the Simplon Railway Line is told by multi-image presentation on a large cinema screen (in French, German and English). On the second and third floors models scale HO and rail memorabilia are on display. You can also play stationmaster with the collection of working, remote controlled, historical models, scale 'O' on an impressive 277m of track.