Le Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval

Just 30 minutes from the Hotel Magdeleine in Romans-sur-Isère is an extraordinary architectural masterpiece: the Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval. This one-of-a-kind creation is the fruit of the overflowing imagination of a rural postman named Ferdinand Cheval, who devoted 33 years of his life to building this palace with his own hands.

Inspired by nature, the postcards and illustrated magazines he distributed, the Postman Cheval sculpted a phantasmagorical universe, mixing different styles and influences. You will discover exotic animals, mythical deities, strange plants and much more.

Having become a must for naive art and outsider art, this place arouses admiration and astonishment. It was also classified as a Historic Monument in 1969 by André Malraux, then Minister of Culture, who recognized in it a pure creation of the mind.

After exploring this stone maze, you can stroll through the adjoining garden, designed by Postman Cheval for his tomb, or visit the permanent exhibition dedicated to his life and work.

The Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval is a real invitation to travel and daydream, a unique and fascinating cultural experience. A detour via Hauterives is a must during your stay at the Hotel Magdeleine, to discover this astonishing testament to human perseverance and creativity.