MAISON DU CHANVRE ET DE LA RURALITE

The Maison du Chanvre et de la Ruralité presents a page in the history of regional agriculture: the cultivation of hemp.

For many years, the Sarthe region was home to hemp growing.

The Maison du Chanvre et de la Ruralité exhibits the equipment that was used in our countryside to grow this versatile plant.

The various stages in its production are presented: sowing, harvesting, retting, grinding, baking, etc. So many stages in the life of a farmer.

Then comes the exploitation of fibres, combing, spinning, weaving... trades that have all but disappeared today.

These different activities, carried out by a large number of men and women, contributed to the region's thriving craft economy.

The Maison du Chanvre et de la Ruralité brings back to life these difficult agricultural trades, so important in our countryside.

Hemp growing has not disappeared. Hemp is used in our homes, particularly for heat and sound insulation. It is also used in the automotive industry, in plastics.

Free admission. Guided tour by appointment.

Open Saturdays from 2pm to 6pm and Sundays from 10am to 6pm from April to the end of October.