The Gallery site boasts two historic stone buildings: a grand old monastery, slated to house the gallery, and an adjoining residence.
Abandoned for many years, the monastery likely dates back to the late 12th or 13th centuries. While the doorways to the monks’ cells have long been filled in, traces of their existence remain. Inside, three huge parallel rooms await restoration, with the central one showcasing a coffered arched ceiling yearning to be returned to its former splendor. Remarkably, a number of the massive beams supporting the roof still bear ancient decorations and artwork, serving as poignant reminders of times past that must be carefully preserved.
The attached residence, tracing its origins to the early 1800s, appears to have originally comprised three separate homes now merged into one. Facing Rue Gambetta, only two-thirds of its frontage is visible, adorned with 17 large windows, while the remaining third extends discreetly behind the neighboring property.
These venerable structures have witnessed the devout prayers of religious figures and the strategic planning of wartime leaders, leaving an indelible mark on world history. Legend holds that Jean Poton de Xaintrailles, a close confidant and General to Joan of Arc, lies buried within the garden and frequented the site often. Additionally, Admiral François Darlan, a controversial figure from World War II, once called this house his own, using its confines as a place for strategic deliberation. After him, the residence belonged to a highly decorated French soldier, M. Meyere, adding yet another layer of historical significance to this storied property.