Restore an old convent!

CODE: ANEC13

Location: Joinville, Grand Est, France

Context

Joinville is a beautiful little town full of remarkable ancient heritage. Recognizable by its bell tower and surrounded by lush green valleys, it is an ideal destination for lovers of nature and historic architecture. The work takes place at the Convent of the Annonciades Célestes: a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, abandoned about a hundred years ago and unfortunately damaged by time, but gradually coming back to life year after year... The Convent of the Annonciades Célestes was purchased by heritage enthusiasts who are dedicated to restoring it and bringing it back to life. Since 2022, they have been hosting volunteer projects. Beyond the restoration work, the goal of the project for the locals is to introduce volunteers to the treasures of local heritage and French gastronomy, while sharing their love for beauty and their town.

Mission

BJoin a workcamp at the heart of a historic convent and take an active role in its restoration and enhancement. Continuing the 2025 works, you will help rebuild the exterior wall to its original height, restoring the garden's charm and ensuring visitor safety. Inside, you will assist in repairing the plaster in the old kitchen to prevent water infiltration and preserve the ancient stones. Supervised by a professional, you will learn traditional techniques and gain hands-on artisanal skills. In case of strong heat or unpredictable weather, the schedule and organization of the project may be adapted to ensure everyone's comfort and safety. This is a practical, meaningful, and rewarding experience, where you will learn to work as a team and leave your mark on a place steeped in history.

Group life

Beyond working hours, volunteers come together to organise daily life on the camp. Often divided into teams, they plan menus, help with the shopping, prepare meals, and ensure the cleanliness of shared spaces. Fully involved in shaping your experience, you will also take part in decision-making regarding group activities and daily organisation! In order to reduce the environmental impact of our projects, we prioritise vegetarian menus, which meet all the nutrional needs of participants. There will be French volunteers on the workcamp. Some of them might not speak English. This can be an opportunity for everyone to develop new language skills and innovatove ways of communicating!

Accomodation

Volunteers sleep in the former rooms of the convent's sisters. They stay in a wing of the building that includes a kitchen, a living space, and bathroom facilities, with caring and attentive neighbors nearby. The atmosphere of the project is designed to be very warm and family-like.

What you will find on site:
Individual bedrooms in the convent
Bed with a mattress
2 toilets (inside)
Solar showers installed in the convent's gardens (private cabins)
A washing machine, available free of charge, upon request to the owners Inside kitchen
A dining/living area and a relaxation space available in the convent Free Wi-Fi

A day on the workcamp
The day's schedule may vary depending on the camp leaders, the group, and the weather. Volunteers play an active role in their workcamp and can adjust the schedule, in coordination with the team. Keep in mind that every workcamp is different, and each experience is unique. Stay flexible and proactive! In general, volunteers spend around 20 hours per week working, and have two days off dedicated to cultural outings, on-site activities, and free time. Here's what a typical day on a worksite might look like:

8am-12h30pm: Work
10:30am-12:30pm: Meal preparation
12:30pm-1:30pm: Lunch
1:30pm-2pm: Clean up
2pm-3:30pm: On-site activities
3:30pm-6pm: Free time
6pm-7:30pm: Free time
6pm-7:30pm: Meal preparation
9pm-9:30pm: Dinner
9:30pm-10:30pm: Evening activities