Les Machines de l'Île

in Nantes

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Guilhem Vellut

Les Machines de l’Île in Nantes is an extraordinary artistic and cultural project that fuses the imaginative worlds of Jules Verne, the mechanical ingenuity of Leonardo da Vinci, and the industrial heritage of Nantes. Situated on the Île de Nantes, this unique attraction was conceived by François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice as part of the city’s urban renewal initiative. The site features a series of monumental mechanical structures, including the Grand Éléphant, a 12-meter-high moving sculpture that offers rides to visitors, and the Carrousel des Mondes Marins, a three-tiered carousel showcasing marine creatures.

Central to the experience is the Galerie des Machines, a dynamic exhibition space where visitors can observe and interact with a variety of mechanical animals and plants. This gallery serves as both a display area and a workshop, allowing guests to witness the creative process behind these intricate machines. Among the exhibits are a giant heron, a mechanical spider, and a swarm of butterflies, each demonstrating the blend of artistry and engineering that defines the project.

Les Machines de l’Île is more than an attraction; it’s a living, evolving installation that continues to grow with new creations and performances. The project not only celebrates the city’s industrial past but also inspires imagination and innovation, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and immersive experience in Nantes.

The Les Machines de l'Île appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Nantes!

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