The project
The town of Saint-Mihiel organises volunteering workcamps to restore dry-stone walls and small stone structures that were rebuilt too quickly after the World Wars. These structures add to the town's charm and serve as important refuges for biodiversity, providing homes for insects and birds. Today, the entire area is recognised as a natural zone of ecological interest, and its protection is ensured by the state.
The project focuses on restoring the walls and small stone structures of the Promenade des Capucins, located to the north of Saint-Mihiel, returning them to their original appearance and securing the pathways. Volunteers will remove old mortar, repair cracks and holes, and apply new lime plaster. They will also raise walls and install coping stones to protect the structures over the long term.
For dry-stone walls, volunteers will dismantle and sort stones, sometimes reshaping them, and carefully reassemble them to ensure stability. All work will be carried out in teams, guided by a professional who will teach traditional masonry techniques.
Be prepared for physically demanding work, including handling stones and applying mortar. Some tasks will take place at height. During periods of intense heat, work will be scheduled mainly for the mornings.
Accommodation & food
Volunteers will stay at the Saint-Mihiel Leisure Centre, a 20-minute walk from the project site. The space is shared with a local recreation centre and nearby holidaymakers, but areas for volunteers are kept private.
Outside of work hours, volunteers organise daily life together. Teams will plan menus, shop for groceries, prepare meals, and keep shared spaces clean. Volunteers are fully involved in shaping their experience, taking part in decisions about group activities and daily organisation.
Location & leisure
Saint-Mihiel, in the Meuse Valley, offers a perfect blend of heritage and nature. The town features a Renaissance-period old town, with charming streets and an abbey, all bearing marks from the World Wars. The region, ideal for nature lovers, boasts stunning panoramas and a lively programme of cultural and festive events. It’s a perfect place to explore and recharge.
Project host
The town of Saint-Mihiel has been organising heritage restoration projects since 2019, working to protect and revitalise its historic centre while celebrating its local and natural heritage.
Interested?
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