Have you ever heard of a postman who built his own palace? In this episode, Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin dive into the incredible story of Ferdinand Cheval, a humble rural postman from France who dedicated 33 years of his life to constructing the extraordinary Palais Idéal. Located in the village of Hauterives in the Drôme, this unique structure was entirely made from stones Cheval collected on his daily postal routes.

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Annie and Elyse explore what drove Cheval to pursue this ambitious and unusual project. They discuss his inspiration, the challenges he faced, and the artistic vision that turned his dream into a reality. This quirky and little-known monument is now a historical landmark and draws visitors from around the world. 

If you love discovering hidden gems or learning about unusual places to visit in France, this episode is perfect for you. Annie and Elyse also share tips on how to plan a visit to the Palais Idéal and highlight other interesting sites in the area, such as Château de Tournon and the Grotte de Choranche.

Listen to the full episode to hear the amazing story of Ferdinand Cheval and learn why this whimsical palace has captured the hearts of so many visitors. It's a must-listen for travelers who seek out the quirky, unusual, and downright inspirational!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• Intro
• Today on the podcast
• Podcast supporters
• The Mystery Book
• Ferdinand Cheval’s Early Life
• Becoming a Postman
• Becoming a postman
• The Ideal Palace
• Legacy and Recognition
• Declared a historic monument
• La Maison Picassiette, Chartres.
• Le Musée Robert Tatin, Mayenne
• La Cathédrale de Jean Linard
• Le Village d’Art Préludien de Chomeaux.
• Gaston Chaissac
• Alain Bourbonnais, La Fabuloserie
• La Halle de la Machine in Toulouse
• Tributes and Inspirations to the Facteur Cheval
• Hidden Gems of the Drôme
• Medieval Ruins and Zen Gardens
• La Cité du Chocolat de Valrhona
• Castle Museum of Tournon-sur-Rhône
• Grotte de Choranche
• Les Labyrinthes de Hauterives
• Le Jardin Ferroviaire
• La Cité de la Préhistoire, Aven d’Orgnac
• Château de Grignon
• Maison de la Truffe et du Tricastin
• Musée de la Chaussure, Romans-sur-Isère
• Museum of olives and olive oil in Nyons
• Camping in the Drôme
• Thank you Patrons
• Support Elyse
• Latin Quarter Tour Review
• Annie’s Itinerary Consult Service
• Ferdinand Cheval – Who sent me the book?
• Day Trips with Annie
• Gaillac Wine Tour
• Canto Perlic Winery
• Pech Merle, St Cirq LaPopie and Cahors Day Trip with Annie
• Next week on the podcast
• Copyright

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