Clos Alexandre: A Gardener's Dream in Amiens

Nestled on the southwestern outskirts of Amiens, a short distance from the university campus, lies Clos Alexandre, a testament to the enduring power of family legacy and horticultural passion. This isn't just a garden; it's a living narrative of dedication, abandonment, and ultimately, rebirth. Originally conceived in 1932 by Alexandre Lemaître, this plot of land began as a humble kitchen garden, a source of sustenance and pride for Alexandre, Méline, Madeleine, and Albert. For three decades, they cultivated a diverse array of fruits and vegetables, aided by local experts like Père Graux, the 'high priest of fruit trees,' and Père Wallet, the 'grand organizer of vegetables.' The garden was meticulously planned, featuring a central 150-meter aisle lined with cordon apple trees, perpendicular espalier pear trees forming compartments for cherries, apricots, plums, and peaches. The orchard was so productive that it yielded 3,000 bottles of cider annually. However, with the passing of these dedicated individuals, the garden gradually fell into disrepair, slumbering peacefully for nearly 25 years. It wasn't until 1991 that Jean Lemaître, Alexandre's son, resolved to revive his family's legacy. Beginning in the spring of 1992, he embarked on a decade-long restoration project, transforming the overgrown space into the captivating garden that exists today. Spanning approximately 5,000 square meters, Clos Alexandre is structured around the theme of the evolving relationship between humans and gardens. This concept is brought to life through eight distinct 'clos,' or enclosed spaces, each offering a unique atmosphere and horticultural focus: * **The Water Garden:** A serene oasis featuring aquatic plants and tranquil water features. * **The Labyrinth of Apple Trees:** A whimsical maze created by carefully pruned apple trees, inviting exploration and discovery. * **The Medieval Cloister:** A contemplative space evoking the atmosphere of a traditional monastic garden. * **The Vegetable Garden:** A vibrant display of seasonal vegetables, showcasing the garden's origins as a source of nourishment. * **The Romantic Garden:** A charming and intimate space filled with fragrant flowers and winding paths. * **The Garden in Pots:** A creative arrangement of potted plants, demonstrating the versatility of container gardening. * **The Little Wood:** A shaded area providing a cool respite from the sun, with a focus on woodland plants. * **The Garden in Perspective:** A carefully designed space that uses visual tricks to create a sense of depth and grandeur. Within these diverse enclosures, visitors can discover over 250 plant species and more than 1,500 varieties. The garden boasts impressive collections of clematis, Japanese maples, viburnums and hostas. Rare species from Chile and Japan add an exotic touch to the landscape. While Clos Alexandre was once recognized as a 'Jardin Remarquable' (Remarkable Garden) by the French Ministry of Culture, it no longer holds this official designation since 2016. Nevertheless, the garden's beauty, tranquility, and horticultural significance remain undiminished. It offers a unique and enriching experience for garden enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the urban environment. The garden is a living testament to the power of family, the beauty of nature, and the enduring legacy of a gardener's dream.