Maison Ecole du Grand Meaulnes
About This Museum
People make the pilgrimage to this quiet corner of the Berry countryside for one reason: to step into the pages of a book. This is the old village schoolhouse where author Alain-Fournier spent his childhood, and which he immortalized as the setting for his beloved novel, 'Le Grand Meaulnes'. You can almost hear the whispers of the author and his fictional hero in these rooms, preserved just as they were over a century ago. It’s a deeply moving experience that blurs the line between fiction and memory.
Collection Highlights
The main classroom feels frozen in time, with its worn wooden desks, the teacher's chair, and the great cast-iron stove. Upstairs, you'll find the simple dormitory where the boarders slept, a space that directly inspired the novel's most poignant scenes. Personal items belonging to Alain-Fournier and original editions of his work make his presence feel incredibly immediate.
Visitor Information
It's best to check their opening times online before you set out, as they can be seasonal. Do ring the bell if the door is closed—the caretaker is often about and loves to share stories.
Architecture & Building
It's a classic French village schoolhouse from the late 19th century: a sturdy, two-story building of pale stone and slate roof, humble and functional, standing proudly opposite the church.
Contact & Location
Address: Rue Alain Fournier, Épineuil-le-Fleuriel, Saint-Amand-Montrond, Cher, Centre-Val de Loire, France métropolitaine, 18360, France
Phone: +33 2 48 63 04 82
Website: Visit Website
