Nestled in the heart of Nantes, France, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes (Les Machines de l'île) is a mesmerizing blend of art, engineering, and imagination. This unique attraction, which opened its doors in 2007, has quickly become one of the city's most beloved landmarks, drawing visitors from all over the world to witness its mechanical marvels. The Machines of the Isle of Nantes is an extraordinary project that brings to life the fantastical worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci, set against the backdrop of Nantes' rich industrial history.
The Machines of the Isle of Nantes was born out of the creative minds of François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice. Their vision was to transform the disused shipyards of Nantes into a vibrant, interactive space that would captivate the imaginations of both young and old. With the support of Nantes Métropole and the theater company La Machine, this ambitious project was set in motion in 2004 and officially inaugurated in 2007.
The location of the Machines of the Isle of Nantes is itself a nod to the city's industrial past. The site is situated on the Île de Nantes, within the Parc des Chantiers, where the once-bustling shipyards operated until their closure in 1987. Today, this area has been revitalized, and the Machines of the Isle of Nantes stands as a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing innovation and creativity.
One of the most iconic creations of the Machines of the Isle of Nantes is the Grand Elephant. This colossal mechanical beast, made of wood and steel, stands at an impressive 12 meters in height and 8 meters in width. Weighing in at 48.4 tons, the Grand Elephant can carry up to 52 passengers on a journey through the site, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings.
As you embark on a ride aboard the Grand Elephant, you'll be treated to a unique perspective of Nantes, from the charming neighborhood of Trentemoult to the bustling Place du Commerce. The experience is both thrilling and immersive, as you feel every vibration and movement of the elephant beneath your feet. The Grand Elephant is not just a ride; it's a work of art that brings together the talents of engineers, sculptors, and craftsmen in a truly spectacular fashion.
No visit to the Machines of the Isle of Nantes would be complete without a spin on the Carrousel of the Marine Worlds. This enchanting carousel, inaugurated in 2012, is a three-level structure that stands 25 meters tall and is populated by 36 moving elements representing various marine creatures. From the depths of the ocean to the surface, the Carrousel of the Marine Worlds takes visitors on a magical journey through the aquatic realm.
The carousel can accommodate up to 300 passengers, with 89 of them able to ride on the intricately designed machines. Each level offers a different perspective, from the mysterious abyss to the vibrant sea surface, making it a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. The Carrousel of the Marine Worlds is a testament to the creative genius of its designers, who have managed to capture the wonder and beauty of the ocean in a truly unique and interactive way.
The Gallery of Machines is where the magic truly comes to life. This exhibition space showcases the various mechanical creations that have been brought to life by the talented team at La Machine. From initial sketches to fully operational machines, the gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind these incredible works of art.
Visitors to the gallery can watch as engineers, technicians, and artists work together to bring these fantastical machines to life. The space is a hive of activity, with craftsmen shaping wood and metal into intricate mechanical marvels. The gallery also features interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to get hands-on with some of the machines and experience the thrill of controlling these incredible creations.
The Workshop is the beating heart of the Machines of the Isle of Nantes. Housed in one of the old shipyard buildings, this 3,000 square meter space is where the magic happens. From the initial design phase to the final construction, the workshop is where the talented team at La Machine brings their creations to life.
Visitors can observe the creative process from two terraces located 7.5 meters above the workshop floor. From this vantage point, you can watch as engineers, welders, sculptors, and carpenters work together to create the next mechanical marvel. The workshop is a testament to the incredible skill and dedication of the team, who pour their hearts and souls into every creation.
The Machines of the Isle of Nantes is an ever-evolving project, with new creations being added regularly. One of the most ambitious projects on the horizon is the Arbre aux Hérons, a massive steel tree that will stand 50 meters in diameter and 35 meters tall. This incredible structure will feature two herons, and visitors will be able to explore its branches and gardens, experiencing the wonder of this mechanical marvel up close.
While the Arbre aux Hérons has faced some challenges and delays, the dedication and passion of the team behind the Machines of the Isle of Nantes ensure that this project will one day become a reality. In the meantime, visitors can continue to enjoy the existing attractions and marvel at the creativity and ingenuity that have made this site one of the most unique and beloved destinations in Nantes.
In conclusion, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Nantes. This extraordinary attraction offers a unique blend of art, engineering, and imagination, bringing to life the fantastical worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. Whether you're riding the Grand Elephant, exploring the Carrousel of the Marine Worlds, or watching the craftsmen at work in the workshop, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the incredible creativity and skill that have gone into creating this magical world.
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