Atelier Du Cuivre 05 Nicolas DonarierAtelier Du Cuivre 05 Nicolas Donarier
©Atelier Du Cuivre 05 Nicolas Donarier|Nicolas Donarier

L’Atelier du Cuivre

L'écho des dinandiers

Villedieu, city of copper

Closely linked to the town’s origins, the tradition of copper smiths dates back to the 12th century, when Norman knights returning from the Crusades brought back with them copper skills already well developed in the Middle East. As the centuries passed, Villedieu-les-Poêles’ reputation grew. Courtyard workshops – traditional buildings that served as both workshops and homes, and could house dozens of families – multiplied, giving the town its unique architectural character.

An ancestral workshop

Founded in 1850, l’Atelier du cuivre is one of the oldest still in business, maintaining the tradition of copperware by hand-crafting all kinds of copper parts, from our grandmothers’ traditional milk canes to luxury taps and fittings, as well as artistic pieces made to order.

The reputation for quality of its alembics, cauldrons, jam pans and other cooking utensils is well established, and many French gourmet chefs swear by cookware from Atelier du cuivre.

With a guide, visitors can tour the entire workshop, witnessing live demonstrations of tinning, embossing and hammering, and observe the manufacturing process as they follow the various craftsmen at their workstations. A two-storey boutique adjoining the workshop sells magnificent pieces in gleaming copper.

By perpetuating these unique skills, the workshop plays a crucial role in raising awareness of the cultural and artisanal heritage of Villedieu-les-Poêles, while continuing to create pieces that combine functionality and aesthetics.

3 reasons to visit Atelier du Cuivre
DISCOVER ancestral know-how

The Atelier du Cuivre in Villedieu-les-Poêles perpetuates centuries-old copper craft techniques. By visiting this workshop, you have the opportunity to watch craftsmen at work, shaping copper with precision and expertise. It’s a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate traditional techniques handed down from generation to generation.

EXPLORE a wide range of handcrafted products

L’Atelier du Cuivre offers a variety of copper items, from kitchen utensils to decorative objects and home accessories. A visit to this workshop will allow you to admire the diversity of locally-made products, and perhaps even acquire some unique, authentic pieces as 100% Norman souvenirs.

KNOW the history of metallurgy

Villedieu-les-Poêles is a town steeped in history, particularly in the field of metallurgy. By visiting the Atelier du Cuivre, you can learn more about the history of this industry in the region, as well as its cultural and economic importance. It’s an opportunity to understand the crucial role copper has played in the development of the town and in the lives of its inhabitants.

Prepare your visit

Address

54 rue du Général Huard
Villedieu-les-Poêles – Rouffigny

Access

Opening hours

Monday9am-12pm1:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Tuesday9am-12pm1:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Wednesday9am-12pm1:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Thursday9am-12pm1:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Friday9am-12pm1:30 pm – 5:30 pm

Closed on Saturday and Sunday

Base rate - full rate adult9€
Reduced rate7,6€
Child rate7,6€
Rate for families21,4€
Rate for adult group8,4€
Base rate - full rate adult9€
Reduced rate7,6€
Child rate7,6€
Rate for families21,4€
Rate for adult group8,4€
School group rate6,8€
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