Machines of the Isle of Nantes
Pays de la Loire
Machines of the Isle of Nantes is a unique artistic and cultural project located on the former shipyards of Nantes, France. Created by François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice, it opened in 2007 and features large-scale mechanical creatures and installations inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. The site includes the famous Grand Elephant, a towering mechanical elephant that moves and carries visitors on its back, and the Carousel of the Marine Worlds, a fantastical merry-go-round with sea creatures. The machines are crafted in a dedicated workshop where visitors can observe artisans at work. This living gallery combines art, engineering, and performance, offering a dynamic experience that celebrates Nantes' industrial past and creative future. It has become a major tourist attraction, awarded for its innovation and immersive storytelling.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays or outside peak holiday periods to avoid crowds. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for popular attractions like the Grand Elephant ride and the Carousel. The site offers multilingual guided tours and has accessibility options. Check the official website for current opening hours and any operational updates. Public transportation via tram line 1 to Chantiers Navals stop is convenient. Discounts may be available for families, students, and seniors.
Interesting facts
- •The Grand Elephant is a 12-meter tall mechanical elephant that can carry up to 50 passengers on a 45-minute promenade.
- •The project blends inspirations from Jules Verne's literary worlds, Leonardo da Vinci's mechanical inventions, and Nantes' shipbuilding history.
- •The workshop where the machines are built spans over 3,000 square meters and is visible to visitors from terraces 7.5 meters high.
- •Les Machines de l'île received a special jury prize at the 2007 International Tourism Fair in Paris for its innovative tourist offering.
- •The Carousel of the Marine Worlds is an enormous merry-go-round featuring fantastical sea creatures and was completed with a budget of approximately 10 million euros.
History
The Machines of the Isle of Nantes project was initiated in 2004 by Nantes Métropole in partnership with the theatre company La Machine, led by François Delarozière.
It was established on the site of the former Dubigeon shipyards, which closed in 1987.
The attraction officially opened in 2007, initially featuring the Grand Elephant and other mechanical creations.
Over time, the project expanded to include the Carousel of the Marine Worlds and additional installations.
It was supported by public funding and European investment, aiming to revitalize the island and celebrate Nantes' industrial heritage through innovative artistic expression.
Place Guide
Grand Elephant2007
A colossal mechanical elephant standing 12 meters tall that moves realistically and carries visitors on its back for a unique promenade around the site. It combines engineering and artistry to create an unforgettable experience.
Carousel of the Marine Worlds2012
A large-scale carousel featuring imaginative sea creatures inspired by marine life and Jules Verne's universe. It offers rides that immerse visitors in a dreamlike underwater world.
The Workshop (Atelier)
The creative heart of Les Machines de l'île, where engineers, technicians, sculptors, and metalworkers build and maintain the mechanical creatures. Visitors can observe the artisans at work from elevated terraces.
