Description of the Gombervaux site
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Classified as a Historic Monument since 1994, the Château de Gombervaux stands three kilometers north-west of Vaucouleurs in the Meuse region of eastern France.
Built in the early 14th century by Seigneur Geoffroy de Nancy, Gombervaux has stood the test of time. It was inhabited for 400 years, before being abandoned. Eventually, it was bought out and used as an agricultural annex.
Surrounded by a vast moat fed by a stream, the château consisted of a quadrangular enclosure flanked by four round towers. The north tower no longer exists. The badly damaged east tower is currently being restored to its ruiniform appearance. Finally, the west tower has been under restoration for several years.
Various restoration projects were undertaken in the 20th century. In 1989, the Gombervaux Association was created. Its 3 objectives are to safeguard, study and promote the site.
Today, Gombervaux's heritage lives on through international volunteer workcamps, historical research, guided tours and various events.
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The aim of the "Calepinage et Archéologie du bâti" project was to initiate a stone-by-stone survey of part of the west tower of the Gombervaux fortified house, with a view to restoring the elevation plan and drawing up a health diagnosis of the structure.
This collection of information provides information on the pathological state of the built structure, and gives indications as to the methodology to be employed for the restoration of defective elements or degraded areas (replacement of one or more stones, levelling, resumption of veneer facing, etc.).
The study of the building thus highlights the characteristics of its construction method and enables the project manager to make informed choices. This upstream work preserves the memory of the monument before the work is carried out, provides information for the architect in charge of the restoration project, and guides the work of the technical supervisors (in this case, the stonemasons) who will supervise future summer projects, and who will ultimately contribute to preserving the authenticity of the work.
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In addition to the members of the association who organize the workcamps and ensure that they run smoothly, two people supervise the group of volunteers on site for the duration of the workcamp:
- A technical supervisor: present at all times on site (around 6 hours a day). As his name suggests, he is in charge of the technical aspects of the site. He'll pass on his know-how and give you all the explanations you need to get the job done.
- An educational leader in charge of organizing group life (cooking, daily chores, well-being, general atmosphere) and outings and activities.
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Shopping, cooking and upkeep of communal areas are group tasks. Arrangements are to be worked out with the educational coordinator and other members of the volunteer group (maximum 8 participants for this workcamp).
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Accommodation and sanitary facilities
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Accommodation is in tents directly in the château courtyard. A large group tent and camp beds are available for volunteers.
Dry toilets and solar showers are installed on site, with the option of showering in the soccer club's changing rooms several times a week. There are also areas for volunteers to enjoy greater privacy.
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Leisure activities and cultural outings
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The Gombervaux Association organizes a number of leisure activities during the workcamp: relaxation and group games, music, outings to discover the local heritage, walks... Participants are welcome to suggest ideas for activities or outings themselves. Musicians (amateur or professional) are invited to bring their favorite instrument.
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Accessibility for people with disabilities
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This site is accessible to people with disabilities. Before pre-registering, please contact the association to discuss your requirements.
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