A former factory is reborn as a museum to tell the story of centuries of textiles and horned craftsmanship.

Housed in Lavelanet’s former textile mill – the factory inherited from the XIXᵉ century – the Musée du Textile et du Peigne en Corne takes you on a journey from medieval times to contemporary techniques. Between period machines, hand looms, carding, spinning, dyeing and weaving, every space exudes authenticity. You’ll also discover the traditional manufacture of horn combs, patiently fashioned according to ancient know-how. It’s a place steeped in history, where the industrial heritage of Ariège is told through gestures, materials and objects.

Demonstrations, workshops, vintage machines – a living museum for young and old.

At the Musée du Textile, the tour combines a self-guided tour with commentary: hand spinning, natural dyeing, weaving on antique looms, horn comb making demonstrations… Explanations, videos and working machines immerse visitors in the daily lives of workers and craftsmen of yesteryear. For younger visitors, fun activities and hands-on workshops bring the experience to life. What’s more, an on-site store sells local products, wool creations, horn objects and artisan souvenirs – perfect for taking home a little piece of history.

For more information about the museum and to plan your visit: https://www.pyreneescathares.com/offres/musee-du-textile-et-du-peigne-en-corne-lavelanet-fr-4153167/ .

From Foix, discover the museum while enjoying the charm of the Ariège region.

Along the way, you’ll be able to admire the Ariège countryside, discover pretty villages and feel the unique atmosphere of the region. You’ll see green hills, ancient houses and fields in bloom – a great way to start the museum experience before you even get there.