The raccard

Built on piles to prevent rodents from getting in, this is the largest building in rural livelihood. It is easily recognisable due to its threshing floor which emerges as a principal façade and splits the building into two equally sized parts. This space is the only barn where the beams are carefully assembled, consequently avoiding any grain loss. On the other hand, the beams on the façade are built simply to facilitate aeration.
 
In the Val d’Hérens, the bedrock of the barn is made from is stone. The empty space is sparsely furnished and can be used as a refuge for sheep resistant to the cold. Formerly, the ‘chant’ of the barn could be heard in Autumn, the characteristic rhythm of the river which hit against the wood to thrash the wheat. This jewel of built heritage is found in the majority of villages, and you can discover this through guided visits.