Paris – 24.06.2026: Amid the current heatwave in France, the troglodyte houses carved into the rocks in the village of Trôo, north of Tours, provide natural cooling. These unique dwellings, directly hewn into the soft tuff stone, maintain an indoor temperature of about 20 degrees Celsius, even when the outdoor temperature rises above 35 degrees.
Dominique Opéron, a resident of Trôo, reports that her 145-square-meter troglodyte apartment remains cool throughout the summer. She emphasizes that this natural freshness has nothing to do with air conditioning and represents a welcome relief from the summer heat.
Jean-Luc Eclercy-Deterpigny, president of the local tourism association, describes life in the troglodyte houses as “incredible luck” in times of climate change. He highlights that residents can rely on the natural cooling provided by the rock during increasingly frequent heatwaves.
Trôo, a picturesque village in the Loir-et-Cher department, houses several kilometers of underground tunnels as well as a small number of permanently inhabited troglodyte homes. The thick rock walls of these dwellings ensure a stable indoor temperature and reduce energy consumption, making them an environmentally friendly alternative in times of rising temperatures.
These traditional living spaces offer not only natural protection against extreme heat but also an insight into the history and culture of the region. Visitors can tour the troglodyte houses and learn more about the lifestyle of earlier inhabitants.
Given the increasing frequency of heatwaves in France, such natural cooling methods are gaining importance. The troglodyte houses of Trôo are a fascinating example of how traditional construction methods can contribute to climate change adaptation.
Scientific studies confirm that the tuff stone, due to its porous structure and high heat storage capacity, keeps the internal temperature stable. While the outdoor air heats up significantly during the day, temperatures inside the caves remain comparatively constant. This not only minimizes the need for artificial cooling but also helps reduce CO2 emissions.
In times when air temperatures often exceed 40 degrees during prolonged heatwaves, these natural dwellings offer a sustainable and energy-efficient housing solution. The combination of history, environmental awareness, and comfort makes the troglodyte houses an attractive example of the connection between tradition and modern climate adaptation.
For those interested, tours and informational offerings are available that provide visitors with insights into both the architectural features and the ecological significance of the troglodyte houses. More information can be found on the official website of the Trôo tourism association.
Sources
- Euronews
- Boursorama
- Anjou Tourisme