History

In 1798 Jean-Francois Loup, a farmer from Carcassonne, is authorized to operate a catalan style forge, the construction of which was undertaken by the previous owner Dumas de Saint-Gervais. Over the course of twelve years or so he added an earthenware factory followed by a wool mill.

Following commendations from the jury of the National Exhibition of 1806, the Forge de Montolieu received a gold medal for its artifacts of steely iron. However, transportation over the local precarious roads was costly ; buying the necessary beechwood grew difficult, and then production from newer, more modern factories became more competitive ; the owners were obliged to end their metal production around 1820 .

Partly converted into a spinning mill, the buildings changed hands in 1823 and again in 1863, when it as purchased by Casimir Degrant and Prosper Lacombe, both sheet merchants from Carcassonne. By 1869, Prospers son, Paul Lacombe the famous French composer became the sole proprietor of the land. He transformed the industrial site into the “Château de La Forge” – residence and park.

In 1910, Jeanne and Louis Gazel became the new owners, becoming relentless in their efforts in beautifying the estate. Between 1973 and 2009, La Forge would come into the possession of yet another two buyers, all keen to maintain the beauty of the estate.

Today, Laure and Charles Cowen are putting all their energy and their soul into “their” Forge in order to restaure it’s former grandeur. They provide a unique residence, of incomparable beauty, ready to welcome the curious from around the world.

For an in-depth summary of the Forge’s history, look in the archives.

Discover La Société des Amis de Paul Lacombe.