Le Moulinal Mine
Rayssac, Castres, Tarn, Occitanie, France
Mine du Moulinal
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Le Moulinai Mine is located in Rayssac, near Castres, in the Tarn department, Occitanie, France, part of a mineral-rich region.
It primarily produced fluorite, with additional minerals like azurite and malachite, appealing to collectors.
The mine operated from ancient times for copper, then 1946–2005 for fluorite, using underground and open-pit methods.
Geologically, it sits in Cambrian black schists, a metamorphic rock formation.
The area features a warm, temperate climate with Mediterranean influence, surrounded by diverse forests and rivers.
Location and Accessibility
The mine is in Rayssac, a small village near Castres, in the Tarn department of southern France, part of the Occitanie region. This area is accessible and known for its mineral deposits, with nearby notable sites like Alban - Le Fraysse in the Tarn-Albigeois district.
Minerals and Geological Context
Research suggests the mine is famous for fluorite, but also yields azurite, malachite, and goethite, making it a treasure trove for enthusiasts. It seems likely that the geological setting, hosted in Cambrian black schists, contributes to its rich mineral diversity.
Historical Significance
The evidence leans toward the mine having a long history, starting with copper mining in the Gallo-Roman period, then shifting to fluorite from 1946 to 2005, first underground and later as an open-pit operation, reflecting changes in mining technology.
Cultural and Environmental Setting
The local culture is rich, with traditions like Gaillac wine and Pink Garlic of Lautrec, set in a landscape with a warm, temperate climate and diverse ecology, including forests and rivers, enhancing the visitor experience.