France Historical Restoration

The preservation and reconstruction of French landmarks is an ongoing concern. Volunteers looking for a more labor-intensive experience and an opportunity to learn about France’s architectural history can assist in this process.

Association Chantiers Histoire et Architecture Médiévales (CHAM), 5-7 rue Guilleminot, 75014 Paris (☎01 43 35 15 51; www.cham.asso.fr). Groups restore heritage sites in France and Francophone countries. Costs vary by age, program, and length of stay.
Association Pour la Participation et l’Action Régionale (APARE), 25 bd. Paul Pons, 84800 L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (☎04 90 85 51 15; www.apare-gec.org). Arranges short-term historical restoration projects in Avignon with an emphasis on the close relationship between local communities and teams of volunteers. Projects typically 2-3 weeks. Camps for both teens (16-18; €305) and adults (18-25; €95-165). Registration price includes room, board, camp activities, and internal travel.
Club du Vieux Manoir, Ancienne Abbaye du Moncel, 60700 Pontpoint (☎03 44 72 33 98; www.cvmclubduvieuxmanoir.free.fr). Projects of varying lengths to restore castles and churches. Membership and insurance fee €15 per year. Program fee €14 per day. Most programs ages 14 and up.
REMPART, 1 rue des Guillemites, 75004 Paris (☎01 42 71 96 55; www.rempart.com). Union of 170 nonprofit French organizations that offers 2- to 3-week work camps in monument restoration. Daily costs for room and board vary by camp. Registration fee covers accident insurance. Ages 18+.
La Sabranenque, rue de la Tour de l’Oume, 30290 St-Victor la Coste (www.sabranenque.com). Discover Provence while restoring its ancient architecture. 2-week sessions June-Sept. 1-week hiking and volunteer programs in Mar. and Oct. 18+.