Thiers, the Knife-Making Capital: A Visit to a Cutlery Workshop Steeped in Tradition
Nestled in the heart of Auvergne, surrounded by rolling green hills and flowing rivers, Thiers is more than just a charming hilltop town in the Puy-de-Dôme region. It’s the living soul of a rare and precious craft: artisan knife-making. For over 700 years, Thiers has been shaping exceptional knives, and visiting one of its many cutlery workshops offers a rich and authentic dive into this heritage.
A Journey into Ancestral Craftsmanship
Stepping into a cutlery workshop in Thiers is like entering a world where every gesture matters. From the first moment, you’re struck by the scent of metal, the rhythmic sounds of the tools, and the focused calm of the artisans. Guided by a passionate craftsman or guide, you'll witness every step of the process: from the initial design to the final hand-finish.
The knife-making process is meticulous. You’ll see how blades are cut from sheets of steel, shaped, sharpened, and carefully honed. Handles are carved from fine materials—such as olive wood, horn, or violet wood—and individually fitted to the blade. Finally comes polishing, a key stage that enhances each knife’s unique look and elegant finish.
A Captivating Demonstration
One of the highlights of the visit is watching the artisan at work. Observing the skilled movements, the attention to detail, and the smooth precision of the tools is both fascinating and calming. Each step is explained with care and enthusiasm, revealing just how much time, patience, and expertise goes into creating a single piece. Some knives require hours—or even days—of work.
You’ll also learn that Thiers produces far more than pocket or table knives—some artisans craft custom-made knives for top chefs or collectors from around the world.
A Living Heritage
As you tour the workshop, it becomes clear that knife-making in Thiers is more than just a trade—it’s a cultural legacy, deeply rooted in the town’s history. In the past, the Durolle River powered the grindstones and machinery, supporting a whole economy built around cutlery. Today, although techniques have evolved, the spirit and passion remain unchanged.
Many cutleries also feature a small museum or exhibition area, where visitors can admire antique knives, traditional tools, and learn more about the evolution of the craft. Some even offer hands-on workshops or personalization services, letting you engrave your name or assemble your own knife.
A Unique and Enriching Experience Visiting a cutlery workshop in Thiers is more than a tourist stop—it’s a genuine encounter with French craftsmanship. Whether you're an art lover, a fan of fine tools, or simply curious, you’ll leave with not only a beautiful, functional object—but also a lasting memory of a living tradition.
Practical Information
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
• Languages: French and English.
• Accessibility: Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
• Group Size: Up to 10 people for a personalized experience.
• Free Parking: Located near the workshop.
• Boutique Discount: Your ticket price is deductible from any shop purchase.