Live a unique experience in Roussillon’s former ochre factory!

The factory tour

The factory, built in 1921 by Camille Mathieu, mayor of Roussillon from 1895 to 1940, was used to extract the ochre from the ore through a washing process. It was active until 1956 when the machine stopped although the basins were used until the end of the 1970s. The account of Élie Icard, a former foreman, helped us to understand the way the factory worked and share this knowledge with our visitors. This tour will also introduce you to the history, the use and the materials of colours.

Creative workshops for all

Come and make natural paints using pigments or become an ochre worker for a day working in the factory as they used to. Open to groups all year long and to families during school holidays.

The colour boutique and bookshop

A wide range of pigments, binders, and tools to make your own natural paints and coatings (also available online). Souvenir shop and specialized bookshop.

Watercolour and dry pastel-making workshop

Discover the Coopérative des couleurs workshop and try the watercolours and dry pastels that are made there.

Training sessions

From March to October, come and learn with an expert how to make natural paints (flour, casein and lime- based) and lime coatings (marmorino and tadelakt).

Private hire and workshops

Our venue can be hired for personal and company events and we can also organize tailor-made workshops and visits.

Prepare your visit

Guided tours in French everyday
Guided tours in English (on request only) Tour partly outside
Free parking site
Dogs permitted on a lead
Free Explore Vaucluse Wi-Fi