9 - Telemecanique pillar

Telemecanique was the process of drawing power from the Rhone’s waters, using its waterfall to action turbines and to transfer this mechanic energy to user factories via cables. This system required the construction of six cut-stone pyramid-shaped pillars, which supported one or more wheels, built into the upper part. However, their difficult and costly maintenance soon gave way to hydropower plants. (PNRHJ - Un tour en ville, “A tour of the town”).