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Palais Ideal du Facteur Cheval
One day a French postman, Ferdinand Cheval, had a dream of building the perfect palace. He woke up the next morning and began his mammoth task. Thirty three years later, Palais Ideal du Facteur Cheval stands as the bizarre and remarkable obsession of one simple man. The mainstream art world dubs the palace outsider artwork that should be viewed as a curiosity. Curiosity or legitimate architecture, the sheer magnitude of the project will impress you. The design includes hand-carved images of women and men among fantastical trees, storks sitting atop columns dripping with Gaudi-esque whimsy, and tiny details all emulating nature with a rough, untrained hand. It's no mistake that you’re reminded of Picasso and Max Ernst as you wander through the palace's corridors, both these artists took inspiration from Cheval's masterpiece. Plan to visit Palais Ideal du Facteur Cheval and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Hauterives attractions using our Hauterives travel route tool.
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Palais Ideal du Facteur Cheval reviews
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I heard about this place so many years ago, then a few years ago I saw the movie. I was so happy and impressed by this place. Definitely recommend visiting.
I heard about this place so many years ago, then a few years ago I saw the movie. I was so happy and impressed by this place. Definitely recommend visiting. more »
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A remarkable fantasy construction built over 33 years by a slightly loopy postman. It's worth the detour if you are in the Drome region of France as it is quite unique. It's called a palace, but as...
A remarkable fantasy construction built over 33 years by a slightly loopy postman. It's worth the detour if you are in the Drome region of France as it is quite unique. It's called a palace, but as... more »
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Quite amazing work of art created by a single man over decades. It's really original. The site is also very classy with a beautiful presentation of the history of the creation of this monument and Postman Cheval's life. A nice gift shop too.
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Had been wanting to visit her for years, I really enjoyed it. This amazing place made by one man with a vision. Loved it.
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