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Hélice Terrestre: A Subterranean Artscape

Explore a troglodyte village transformed into a monumental sculpture. Experience art within the earth at Hélice Terrestre in the Loire Valley.

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The Hélice Terrestre of l'Orbière is a unique modern art space carved into a troglodyte village in the Loire Valley. Artist Jacques Warminski transformed ancient cave dwellings into a monumental sculpture, blending underground spaces with open-air concrete structures, offering visitors a sensory experience within the artwork itself.

A brief summary to Hélice Terrestre of l'Orbière

  • Monday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring both indoor and outdoor spaces with uneven terrain.
  • Check the opening hours before you go, as they may vary depending on the season.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique architecture and artistic details of the Hélice Terrestre.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Gennes-Val-de-Loire, follow the D751 towards Saint-Georges-des-Sept-Voies. Continue on the D751 until you see signs for L'Orbière. Turn onto the smaller road leading to the village. The Hélice Terrestre is located at 16 L'Orbière. Parking is available near the site. Note that parking may be limited during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    From Angers, take Bus 39 towards Gennes. Get off at a stop in Gennes-Val-de-Loire and then it is approximately a 30 minute walk to L'Orbrière. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus ticket from Angers to Gennes costs around €2-3.

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Discover more about Hélice Terrestre of l'Orbière

Venture into the French countryside and discover the Hélice Terrestre (Terrestrial Helix) of l'Orbière, an extraordinary modern art museum unlike any other. Located in the troglodyte village of l'Orbière in Gennes-Val-de-Loire, this isn't your typical art gallery; it's an immersive experience where the art is integrated into the very landscape. The Hélice Terrestre is the brainchild of artist Jacques Warminski, who, captivated by the village's troglodyte dwellings since childhood, gradually acquired the entire village. From 1988 to 1993, Warminski and his team sculpted this unique space, carving into the 'tuffeau' (the local limestone) and adding concrete to create a harmonious blend of natural and man-made elements. Visitors can explore both the subterranean spaces, carved directly into the 'tuffeau', and the open-air sections molded from concrete. The result is a sensory journey, where light and sound play off the curves and volumes of the structure. It's an invitation to become part of the artwork, experiencing its mineral scents and unique acoustics. The village of l'Orbière itself has a rich history, with traces of habitation dating back to the Middle Ages. In the 19th century, several families lived in the troglodyte homes, working as artisans. Warminski’s creation has breathed new life into this ancient village, making it a vibrant center for artistic expression.

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