In the 19th century, the copper mines were the valley's biggest employer. They closed in the early 20th century, bringing about the economic decline of Arrigas. The trays for washing the ore can still be seen alongside the D 189, as you leave the village towards Peyraube. The railway did not bring the hoped-for prosperity since, for technical reasons, no station could be built at Arrigas. To take the train, one had to walk to the neighbouring village of Aumessas. (Jérome Reversat)