Project: Melle is a small town of strong character, very lively, and situated in the center of the Poitou-Charentes region. The city is endowed with an extraordinary local heritage (UNESCO-listed Roman church, a collection of vintage motorcycles, silver mines from the Middle Ages, contemporary art). The small town, closely connected to the surrounding environment, has put in place an arboretum of over 1800 different species. In 2013, volunteers worked on the restoration of the greenhouse housing an orange grove of a bourgeois house. This year the workcamp will concern the restoration of an old building used for hosting scholarly activities, located on the guided tour path of the arboretum. Work: The group will work on the restoration and beautification of the interior of the building. The workcamp will consist of completing lime masonry projects: repointing stones as well as painting. This workcamp will be overseen by the technical agents of the town of Melle. Leisure activities: Volunteers will be able to take advantage of the cultural activities of the town: international biennial of contemporary art, exhibitions, films, a pool. They will also participate in local heritage days (opening of French government buildings). For several years, exchange opportunities have been organized regularly between volunteers, locals, and local partners: students, schools, associations, and retirement homes. Accommodation: collective, in a cottage. Location: Melle, Deux Svres, 60 km from the sea between Poitiers and La Rochelle. Nearest train station: Niort