The project
Have fortified castles always made you dream? Get involved and come and live a unique volunteering experience in the Château de Ham!
For several years, Concordia has been helping the Association des Amis du Château de Ham (association of the Friends of Ham Castle) to restore the monument during international volunteer workcamps. This workcamp in the commune continues its dynamic by bringing together local teenagers and international youths, allowing exchanges and meetings to run.
This year, we will be working on landscaping and masonry, a variety of work appropriate to the history of the site. We will continue the development of the "prisoners' garden" and the consolidation of the ruins of the former German kitchen, with pointing and many other techniques that you will learn.
The program will consist of learning masonry techniques and garden design, but above all international and intercultural exchanges, all of this in a good mood!
Accommodation & food
Accommodation will be in collective tents, with boys and girls separated (don't forget your sleeping bag!)
A village house is at your disposal for the living space, the eating place as well as the toilets and showers. The house also has a washing machine that you can use.
You will share the various collective tasks and prepare meals together.
Location & leisure
Ham is a town of about 7,000 inhabitants located in the Hauts-de-France, in the east of the Somme, in the heart of the former Picardie region. The town is 1h30 from Paris, 1h from Amiens and 25 min from Saint-Quentin.
Because of its position during the First World War, the region hosts today many places of memory and commemoration. Other tourist attractions close to the town also reflect the history of the region, such as Péronne (25 min) with its old castle and museum, or Noyon (20 min) with its medieval historic centre. A visit to the city of Compiègne (imperial city) and Amiens (capital of Picardie) are also on the visit program!
Project host
Built in the 13th century, this medieval fortress was a strategic point to defend the borders during various conflicts. It evolved with time and quickly became a prison welcoming prisoners such as Jeanne d’Arc, or, later, Prince Louis Napoleon Bonaparte (future Napoleon III). Almost completely destroyed by the German army in 1917, it is now in a state of ruin. For more information, you can consult their website : http://chateau-de-ham.over-blog.com/
Since 1972, the Association des Amis du Château de Ham has been fighting to preserve and enhance the historical site. They host integration work sites, organize flea markets and exhibitions, and even transform the site into a theatre. For several years, Concordia has been helping the association with the restoration of the monument through volunteer workcamps involving local and international youth.
Interested?
Enquire below and we'll connect you with one of our volunteering team to help you apply or answer any questions. We can help guide you through the process for a hassle free journey to your next project.