Vez
Le Donjon de Vez
A medieval heritage just 1 hour from Paris
In the Pays de Valois, just an hour from Paris, the Donjon de Vez, an imposing 14th-century medieval fortress, stands in the heart of the Automne valley. A historic monument since 1906, it is a living symbol of medieval history and, since 1987, a mecca for contemporary art.
A place dedicated to contemporary art
Once a strategic stronghold during the Hundred Years’ War, the dungeon has been transformed by art and heritage enthusiast Francis Briest into a space where feudal architecture meets modern design.
In its courtyards and gardens, visitors can discover monumental sculptures by leading contemporary artists. Works by Daniel Buren, Bernar Venet, Antoine Bourdelle and Robert Couturier interact with the ramparts and surrounding landscape, creating a unique atmosphere where past and present meet.
A sculptural park and a remarkable garden
The Parc du Donjon, a ” Remarkable Garden ” designed by landscape architect Pascal Cribier, is a veritable showcase for these sculptures. Alternating clearings and undergrowth, it offers an ideal setting for the permanent exhibition of some twenty works, some of which, likeEugène Dodeigne ‘s Carré and Antoine Bourdelle’s Sapho, resonate particularly well in this environment. The interaction between nature and art allows visitors to contemplate creations that blend harmoniously into the landscape.
Temporary exhibitions every year
Every year, temporary exhibitions are added to the collection, making the Donjon de Vez an essential artistic destination in the Hauts-de-France region. The works, exhibited outdoors or in the dungeon rooms, reflect an ongoing dialogue between the site’s medieval past and contemporary creations. This emblematic site offers a unique experience, where art acts as a medium for reflection on heritage and its evolution over time.