Growing Fruit in Amiens: One of the Remaining Orchard Keepers
Unravel the charms of Amiens (Somme) as you step into its remarkable floating gardens, nicknamed the Little Venice of the North – the hortillonnages. Sprawling over an impressive 300 hectares, these labyrinthine waterways crisscross the city center, a testament to the ingenuity of past human endeavors.
Daniel Parmentier, one of the last surviving market gardeners, cultivates this rich heritage passed down through three generations, admitting, "It's my life, the life of my parents... I love my place."
The Art of Traditional Cultivation
Underneath Daniel's feet lies the dream of every market gardener – a soil so fertile it needs no artificial supplements. Nurtured by nature itself, this land offers a natural abundance that requires no external boost. Just as his ancestors did before him, Daniel tends his four hectares with his bare hands, preserving an age-old tradition.
Soak in the enchanting visuals of Daniel's farmland by watching the video above.
Factoid: The hortillonnages in Amiens are a unique combination of history, culture, and nature, drawing tourists seeking both relaxation and a connection to the city's heritage. The site is internally connected by canals, making it a tranquil journey amid ever-changing gardens teeming with an array of flora and fauna. Efforts to preserve the hortillonnages against urban development are ongoing despite pressures from certain developers who propose converting the area into luxury housing or theme parks[1][2][5].
Immerse yourself in the authentic French lifestyle as you explore Daniel Parmentier's home-and-garden, a testament to a three-generation tradition of gardening. His four hectares, reminiscent of the hortillonnages in Amiens, reveal the charm of a French garden that seamlessly blends with nature, offering a glimpse into a past French lifestyle.
