The Chartreuses

Greenhouses open to the sky!

A unique succession of 10 walled gardens, once called ‘fruitiers’, the Chartreuses by the shelter of its walls, permitted the cultivation of magnificent fruits,peaches, pears, apricots, almonds, figs, grapes….and the 850m of wall allowed for the training of the trees.

Today the Chartreuses contain a splendid collection of perennials, making a spectacular Summer display. At the far end of the central aisle, Pomone, goddess of the abundance, surveys all.

The additions to the Chartreuses

Every year new varieties are added for the greater enjoyment of the visitors. In 2011, for example, 30 varieties of perennials, climbing plants and white roses were planted in the ‘White’ Chartreuse.

The peony Chartreuse, having been planted with 25 fruit trees trained along its walls, has seen these put back to their original use!