A former olive grove is now being put to a new use

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THE OLIVE GROVE

In Valergues, on intermunicipal land located near the “Le Jardin des Cigales” recreation center, a former olive grove is now being given a new purpose. Long left fallow, this plot in the heart of the village is now the focus of a new initiative: to create an educational, intergenerational “third place” centered around the olive tree, an iconic symbol of the Mediterranean basin.

Conceived as a space for discovery, learning, and sharing, the “Le Jardin aux Oliviers” project aims to restore the olive grove to make it productive once again. It will also offer activities for local children focused on sustainable agriculture and food.

Throughout the year, guided by two professionals handling the technical aspects and facilitators leading the educational activities, the children will be invited to follow the olive tree’s growth cycle through sensory experiences, hands-on workshops, games, craft activities, and nature exploration.

This seasonal immersion will foster a deeper understanding of this unique ecosystem and the essential role humans play in its preservation.

Eventually, when the olive trees return to full production, harvest time will become a special occasion for gathering and passing on knowledge across generations. The Olive Grove thus embodies a unifying project that blends heritage, environmental education, and social connection to bring olive cultivation to life in the heart of the village.