top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Courbefy goes for €520,000

The village has been bought by an American photographer, who will use it as an ‘environmental and artistic’ project

THE abandoned village of Courbefy has been sold for €520,000 to an American photographer.

South-Korean-born Ahae has not yet said what he plans to do with the hamlet, now reported to consist of 21 buildings (19 were previously mentioned), stables, a swimming pool and a tennis court.

A spokesman for the artist said however the project would be “environmental, artistic and cultural”.

Ahae, who is presenting a photographic series at the Tuileries from June 26 called Through My Window, has stated that he is always on the look-out for sites where he can put into practice his “concepts of an organic lifestyle”.

Only two other parties had signed up to bid against him, each represented by an avocat. They were a Belgian company, seeking to create a centre for disabled people and Dutch reality TV company Endemol (makers of Big Brother, Star Academy, Secret Story, The Voice etc) who wanted to run a show where people taking part would have done the village up.

Abandoned once villagers left, an attempt was made to run Courbefy as a hotel and restaurant complex, but Crédit Agricole put it on sale in bankruptcy proceedings. It failed to attract interest at a first sale, but then gained worldwide notoriety.

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France