Phosphatières du Cloup d'Aural

The Phosphatières du Cloup d'Aural offer a chance to immerse yourself in a world where history, science and nature come together.

We invite you to discover this unique site, which bears witness to the evolution of our planet and the human exploitation of its resources.

A chance discovery

The history of phosphate mines began in 1865When Jean-André Poumarède, a pharmacist and chemist in Caussade, visited his brother-in-law in the area.

Intrigued by the lushness of the local crops and the presence of bone debris in the fields, he took samples of these curious stones. His analyses revealed a high tricalcium phosphatean essential element for agriculture.

This discovery marked the start of phosphate mining in Quercy.

The golden age of farming

At the end of the XIXᵉ century, phosphate mining was in full swing. Phosphate pits, natural or man-made cavities, became major extraction sites.

Workers extract the precious ore, which is used as fertiliser to enrich agricultural soils. This activity is transforming the landscape and the local economy, making the Lot a key player in phosphate production in France.

The Cloup d'Aural phosphate mines, a palaeontological treasure trove

Over and above their industrial importance, phosphate mines are proving to be real treasures for palaeontologists.

The sediments accumulated over thousands of years have preserved a multitude of fossils.This is a unique testimony to the fauna of the Tertiary era, some 34 million years ago.

More than 700 fossil species have been identifiedsome of which have become international references for defining European faunas.

What lush vegetation!

As you descend into the phosphatières, you'll be surprised by a lush vegetation that will remind you of the tropics. But you're still in the Quercy!

Giant ferns, orchids and other exotic plants thrive in this unique microclimate, favoured by the geological configuration of the site.

A tourist and educational site

Today, the Phosphatières du Cloup d'Aural are open to the public. Guided tours explain the geological, industrial and natural history of the site..
We personally really enjoyed the visit.

The site is also a place of scientific research, where excavations continue to reveal new fossils, contributing to our understanding of the evolution of species and climates.

An interpretation centre is also being built on the site.

Visit the Phosphatières du Cloup d'Aural for information on times, prices and bookings.