The Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a mechanical universe

Les Machines de l'Ile is a contemporary art gallery located along the Loire estuary on the island of Nantes, one of the most dynamic and creative cities in France. Just under the ancient steel aisles of its former industrial warehouses lives a fantastic world populated by a series of gigantic mechanical animals capable of moving and transporting visitors for a stroll around the city streets. This ingenious project was inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne and the mechanical universe of Leonardo da Vinci, created by set designer and director François Delarozière and by theater producer and artistic director Pierre Orefice.



The Machines of the Isle of Nantes are arranged throughout the various spaces to showcase these mechanical artworks which include flying animals, sea creatures, insects and much more. But the main attraction is undoubtedly the Great Elephant, a 12-meter-high pachyderm capable of carrying up to fifty people and spraying water from its trunk. The machinists are always available to the public to explain to the public just how these creations work. This is a real attraction worthy of praise, an incredible mechanical universe capable of leaving both young and old absolutely speechless.



The gallery, which opened in 2007, has received many awards, including the Special Jury Prize at the Paris International Tourism Fair. Inside the pavilions, but also outside, you can find bars, bookstores, souvenir shops, but be sure to visit the workshop where new "Machines" are built. For any further information: https://www.lesmachines-nantes.fr/

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