The underground quarries - also known as catiches - represent a rich historical, cultural and natural heritage which is however impossible to access for a large public. The exhibition invites visitors to discover remarkable sites at different times of their existence.

The exhibition focuses on the quarries of the city of Lezennes, but the themes addressed concern the 12 municipalities of the Lille metropolitan area concerned by underground chalk quarries. (Faches-Thumesnil, Hellemmes, Lesquin, Lezennes, Lille, Loos, Ronchin, Seclin, Templemars, Vendeville, Villeneuve d'Ascq and Wattignies).
Panels and displays presenting original objects address both the techniques of quarrying, the different uses that have been made of them, the biodiversity that has developed there, or the risks associated with it.
Highlight of the exhibition, a virtual reality space offers a stroll in the different sectors of the underground quarries of Lezennes. The experience is enriched by scenes of life (refugees, carriers...) to represent the occupation of careers over time.
This exhibition is on loan from the University of Lille and designed by its scientific mediation program Les sciences infusent.
An exhibition booklet and a discovery booklet for children (from 10 years old) are available.
MEL Archives: 1 rue des Sciences in Ronchin. Free parking. Access by public transport: bus 18 (stop Defaux or Faidherbe) or Corolle 1 (stop Orée du Golf).