Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the dramatic Durolle Valley in central France’s Auvergne region, Thiers is celebrated worldwide as France’s Cutlery Capital—a historic medieval town where artisanal craft and centuries-old heritage intertwine seamlessly. For over 700 years, its skilled craftsmen have shaped the nation’s cutlery, producing 70% of France’s pocket and kitchen knives. The town’s beating heart lies in its medieval upper town, a protected sector lined with sculpted half-timbered houses, Renaissance mansions, and narrow cobblestone streets that whisper tales of medieval trade and prosperity. At its center stands the Église Saint-Genès, a striking Romanesque church with Auvergne’s largest octagonal dome. Down in the Vallée des Usines (Factory Valley), the industrial soul of Thiers unfolds: abandoned 19th-century factories, water-powered mills, and rugged riverbanks tell the story of a craft shaped by the Durolle River’s energy. The Musée de la Coutellerie (Cutlery Museum) anchors the experience, showcasing five centuries of blade-making with live forging demonstrations and artisanal workshops. With its authentic markets, craft boutiques, and panoramic mountain views, Thiers offers a rare, immersive journey into the soul of French artisanal heritage.