Jardin de Gabriel

"Gabriel's Garden" is located at Chez Audebert - D129, in the commune of Nantillé, 10 km south of St Jean d'Angély and 4 km from St Hilaire de Villefranche. It features 400 statues by Gabriel ALBERT (1904-2000). A poetic encounter with surprising characters, both well-known and anonymous. At the age of 65, Gabriel ALBERT, a self-taught carpenter and cabinet-maker, began creating cement sculptures inspired by the popular press of the 1970s and 1980s, such as Ici Paris and Paris Match, as well as religious and literary references. In 1991, he bequeathed his property to the commune of Nantillé, not wishing his works to be dispersed. It is now the property of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region and is listed as a Historic Monument. Her studio, her house, her sculptures and her garden now form an exceptional heritage asset. Guided tours are organised on a regular basis. Visits can also be made on a self-guided basis, with the help of a visit booklet for the general public or a games booklet for children (aged 8 and over). The garden is open by appointment for groups and for the European Heritage Days.