We take you… to visit the Maison du Patrimoine Sourdin | Tourism in Villedieu

A bit of history

As soon as we enter, we are amazed by the high ceilings, underlined by six huge windows with moucharabiehs projecting the sun’s rays against the walls. We begin our visit with the theme of the Knights of Malta, who founded the town. Here, museum director Philippe Clairay draws our attention to a block of stone hanging on the wall. It’s an armorial granite keystone dated 1696. “The current coat of arms of Villedieu is a reinterpretation of this ancient coat of arms that belonged to the Commander Rochechouart, and you can see his name engraved on the stone,” says Mr. Clairay. As the history of Villedieu is closely linked to that of the Order of Malta, we observe several reproductions of photographs illustrating the previous Grand Sacre, religious processions held every four years.

Further on, we see the work of the coppersmith, with a fine collection of pots and spoons from the bygone era, when inexpensive and nutritious buckwheat porridge was the main meal for most workers. We look up at the ceiling, where stoves and various types of hammers hang, everyday tools used by coppersmiths to solidify copper. Copper craftsmanship profoundly altered the appearance of the town, which is why we find here a small wooden reproduction of a workshop courtyard. When we open the small door, we see a reconstructed interior with the workshop on the first floor (fireplace, tools, piles, etc.) and the living quarters on the second floor (bed, wardrobe, etc.).

In the heart of the House

Immediately following, Norman furniture is highlighted by an alcove dedicated to woodworking. Here, we can touch and identify different species of wood and observe tools such as planes, gouges and chisels. On the wall, a Norman cupboard is dissected to reveal the various parts that make this piece of furniture special: richly carved cornices and medallions, double doors, curved legs…

Opposite, an alcove is dedicated to contemporary heritage. A bell on the theme of the transmission of knowledge sits in the center. Next to it is a modern metal cabinet. On the wall, a frame adorned with gleaming copper leaf. “We wanted to showcase local companies such as Mauviel, Atelier du Cuivre, Cornille-Havard and Chaudrolux,” says Clairay.

Finally, we come to the lace theme, where the various traditional stitches are explained with the help of squared patterns. This know-how was generally passed down from mother to daughter, and the sale of these magnificent works provided deaf households with an additional income. We look at old photos of these women, gathered in the Place du Caquet, busily at work.

A temporary exhibition can also be seen in the back room: “900 years of history”, where we can see the ceremonial costume of a Knight of the Order of Malta, as well as exceptional archive documents such as this hand-drawn plan of Villedieu dating from the 18th century.

The Maison du Patrimoine Sourdin features an original, modern scenography, using the noble materials for which Villedieu is renowned. A suspended walkway provides an overall view of the museum, allowing visitors to appreciate the work carried out on the six different, custom-built moucharabiehs.

Complementary to the historical tour, this museum is also interactive, with touch-screen tables, videos and audio headsets, as well as reproductions that can be handled by young and old alike. Combining modern design with traditional materials, the museum offers an overview of the city’s history through six alcoves with varied and unique themes.