Porcieu-Amblagnieu Washhouses

Of the 7 washhouses that were still in use at the beginning of the century, only four remain, in Vassieu, Conilieu and Amblagnieu. They are still fed by springs.
Originally, these "gabouillons", as they were called in the region, were very basic reservoirs dug out near the streams.
All of the washhouses were built in the same layout, with a roof to protect the washerwomen from the rain or sun. To allow daylight through, the working area was never protected by a wall.