The Forks Conservatory

About

Workshop for the manufacture of 3-pronged wooden forks, made from specially cultivated hackberry trees. This industry, unique to Sauve and awarded the Ville et Métier d’art label in 2016, is the only one of its kind in Europe.

Since probably the 7th century, hackberry trees have been tamed here to grow in the shape of three highly recognizable beaks which, after manipulation, become a fork.

In the past, up to 120,000 forks were made each year, and were highly prized as they were safer for animals’ feet. This industry, unique in Europe and unique to Sauve, was already mentioned in the 12th century.
It was Jean Antoine de Claris, Seigneur de Florian, who helped the intendant of the Cooperative to convince the King to give the Sauvains the monopoly on production.

Exhibition rooms with video on fork-working and presentation of tools used. Visits and sales. A room presenting the garrigue – fauna, flora, geology, hydrology – of the Sauve area through 8 interactive screens.

Spoken languages : English – Spanish – French

Prices

• From 4€
• From 2,5€

Payment

• Cheque
• Bons CAF
• Cash

Groups

• Maximal number of persons 20

Location