Nestled in the charming town of Dreux, France, the Dreux Wine-growers and Craftsmen Ecomuseum (écomusée des Vignerons et Artisans Drouais) offers a fascinating journey through the region's rich viticultural and artisanal heritage. This unique museum, situated on the historic site of the former Saint-Thibault priory, provides visitors with an immersive experience into the traditional practices and crafts that have shaped the local culture over centuries.
The origins of the Dreux Wine-growers and Craftsmen Ecomuseum trace back to the 12th century when Robert I, Count of Dreux, commissioned the monks of the Cistercian Abbey of Breuil-Benoît to establish a conventual priory at the foot of his castle. The monks were tasked with cultivating vineyards, and Dreux soon became renowned for its extensive vineyards, which covered 250 hectares during the Middle Ages. The Eure-et-Loir region, where Dreux is located, boasted a staggering 7,249 hectares of vineyards at its peak.
The priory's monks carved impressive vaulted cellars into the flint and chalk marl of the region. These cellars, reinforced with ogival arches and stone corbels, were used to store and sell tithe wine. The architectural beauty of these cellars, with their intricate arches and niches, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the time. The cellars also served as a refuge for locals during attacks and were a stop for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.
After the French Revolution, the priory was sold as national property and transformed into a farm-inn. The chapel was demolished in 1852, but the cellars remained, preserving the history of the site. In 1986, the discovery of two 12th-century troglodyte cellars sparked a series of renovations, leading to the establishment of the ecomuseum by the cultural association Flora Gallica in 1995.
The Dreux Wine-growers and Craftsmen Ecomuseum offers a diverse array of exhibits and activities that cater to history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and those interested in traditional crafts. As you enter the courtyard, you'll be greeted by a life-size replica of a 15th-century cabotière, a type of boat used for shallow waters. This painstakingly constructed vessel, built by dedicated volunteers, adds a touch of authenticity to the museum's ambiance.
The courtyard also features various artifacts, including the door to the cellar of the king's tax collector's house, which was burned down by vignerons (winegrowers) in 1789, a 7,150-liter wine cask, a cart, and grape presses. These items provide a glimpse into the tools and equipment used in viticulture and winemaking over the centuries.
Inside the museum, the ground floor is dedicated to the tools and techniques of winegrowing. Here, you can admire stained glass reproductions from the Chartres Cathedral, depicting wine merchants, coopers, and vignerons. A notable exhibit is the 17th-century plaster and wood statue of Our Lady of the Grape. Traditionally, the first grape of the harvest was placed in the statue's hand for good luck. This statue, once sold to a Parisian antique dealer, was repurchased by Flora Gallica through a subscription campaign.
On the first floor, you'll find exhibits showcasing vintage linens, grooming tools (including curling irons and lace), vinarelles (wine-based watercolors), and watchmaker's tools. The Artisans' Attic is a treasure trove of traditional crafts, featuring spaces dedicated to various trades such as shoemaking, harness-making, rope-making, blacksmithing, and pottery. One room even recreates an apothecary, complete with period-appropriate tools and ingredients.
The Dreux Wine-growers and Craftsmen Ecomuseum also boasts a meticulously recreated medieval garden. Following the principles of Hildegard of Bingen, a renowned medieval herbalist and polymath, the garden features a variety of ancient, aromatic, textile, and medicinal plants. Spread over a parcel of nearly 600 square meters, the garden offers a serene and educational experience for visitors, highlighting the importance of plants in medieval life and medicine.
One of the highlights of the ecomuseum's calendar is the annual harvest festival held in early October. This vibrant event celebrates the region's viticultural heritage with traditional music, dance, and, of course, wine tasting. It's an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and enjoy the fruits of the vineyard.
In conclusion, the Dreux Wine-growers and Craftsmen Ecomuseum is a hidden gem that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and tradition. Whether you're a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or simply looking for an engaging and educational outing, this ecomuseum provides a unique and memorable experience. Its beautifully preserved cellars, diverse exhibits, and charming medieval garden make it a must-visit destination in the heart of Dreux.
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