The “Palais Ideal” is clearly a unique work in the world. It was created in the 19th century by Ferdinand Cheval . A simple postman who spent his free time for 30 years to build this impressive building of stones and rocks.
It is difficult to imagine that a single man could have done such a thing, but it was. Twelve years earlier he began planning his palace. Collecting various materials that he found during the trips that he was forced to do for his work, and thanks to his ingenuity and genius he created this work of art with a unique ornamentation.
As expected, the style of this work is difficult to categorize within all known architectural styles, since its creator simply used his imagination. However, among all these styles, naive architecture has been used to define this monument. An architecture that is considered creative and ingenious . Among all the scenes that can be seen on its walls, those in which a Hindu temple or Egyptian monuments appear stand out. It also has certain similarities with medieval castles.
Currently the Ideal Palace of Hauterives , in France , is considered a historical monument. In addition, the natural environment that surrounds it further increases its beauty and originality. As can be seen in the photograph, the abundant vegetation, the hundred-year-old trees and the green color that expands everywhere, welcome the palace and give it a touch of magic.
Inside , several of the palace’s rooms are exhibited to scale figures of some of the most important and traditional monuments of European heritage. Such as the medieval castle or the Swiss chalet.