The Napoleon quarry (Ferques, France)

In the Ferques / Marquise region there are some large quarries. In Marquise you have rather softer limestone, while in Ferques you will find the harder marble. One of the most famous (and the largest in France) are the "Carrières du Boulonnais". This one is located along the D231 where they have created a nice viewpoint. From there you have a view of the big "Carriere Napoleon". The pictures below make it clear what can be seen: one big hole in the bottom of the Earth. This is where marble is mined that was used in numerous city halls, churches, hotels, etc. worldwide. "Napoleon" here refers to a well-defined type of marble. More than 85% of the production is for export. A spectacular viewpoint you must have seen if you are in the area.

Company visits are available from June 2025. See this web site.

FERQUES France

Indication of the location on the Top.Flanders map.
Indication of the location on Google Maps.
Social media of this company "Carrières du Boulonnais": website ( with the history ) - LinkedIn - Facebook
Interesting, French-language article about this mine on Planet Terre.

Photos from June 6, 2023:

Impact on the environment: nature there is buried under a layer of sand dust blowing away from the marble quarries.