The rebirth


In agreement with the municipality, we believe that investing in a site to save it is reasonable only if the site is used.
It is for this purpose that we organize various shows and exhibitions.
The municipality understood this aspect of things. In 2005 it launched a study of the restoration of the entire site and how it could be used as a cultural center. The study which was directed by Manuelle Veran-Hery, a heritage architect, remains the point of reference for current restorations.
2005 also presented an extraordinary and unexpected opportunity. European Union, via a “GAL leader+” scheme, proposed funding for municipal projects using traditional local materials including chestnuts.
Despite the very short time, we managed to create plans within three days with a quotation from a local carpenter and on the last day the project was filed in the GAL leader’s office. Three months later the institution gave €45,000 to put chestnut roofs on all the buildings. It was this funding which unleashed the will of the Municipality. The repairs were completed 18 months later.

Then, under the leadership of the new mayor, Alain Mabilon, the finishing touches were put to the chapel. Its bays and buttresses were restored, stained glass was installed and toilets were created.

For this, the municipality provided most of the financing, the rest came from grants from local and regional departments and some private resources:
•      La Fondation du Crédit Agricole
•      La Fondation Gaz de France
•      La Sauvegarde de l'Art Français
•      Patrimoine Rhônalpin : awarded a prize
•      Patrimoine Casteneuvois
•      La Fondation du Patrimoine
•      La Société de Sauvegarde des Monuments Anciens de la Drôme.

Alongside this important work done by professionals, equally important work was done by the association volunteers.