top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Back-breaking work pays off at chateau

Back-breaking work by volunteers has helped stabilise the crumbling chateau at St Blaise near Nice and, with trees cleared, allowed it to be seen from the village.

Local group Le Castel did the work and vice-president Dave Taylor-Jones said: “It has sprung out of the forest and become a much more important part of life here.

“The commune bought it from a private owner and financed the shoring up of the tower which had a big fissure.”

A retired structural engineer who has lived in the village for 30 years, Mr Taylor-Jones said: “It has been very exciting to take part. Not everyone has a medieval castle they can help restore and it has been wonderful to work with my friend and neighbour, Christian Canac, the driving force behind the project.”

Mr Taylor-Jones also writes and one of his stories based on the chateau was translated into French and turned into a play, put on in the chateau grounds (see photo right). “Logistically, it was a big challenge to put on a play at a site so remote from access roads and electricity. We had to carry all the props, costumes and sound system 1km from the forest road.”

The story, If Only Stones Could Talk, tells of the ghost of a young man who died in the dungeon and haunts the ruins.

It was played by local theatre group Ni d’Eve, Ni d’Adam. “It was great to see something I’d written come alive by being acted out in the crumbling magnificence of the chateau,” he said.

He has also written a book, Another Side of France, with 22 short stories and essays about life in France.

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