This week on the podcast we are discussing the art of stonemasonry with Grégory Philippe. As ancient as this profession may be, it holds an important place in the modern world, too. You need look no further than the titanic restoration project of Notre Dame to understand its lasting importance.
The podcast episode
In the first part of the episode, you’ll hear Grégory demystify the world of stonemasonry and celebrate limestone, the most important stone in the city of Paris. And, of course, being in the presence of a stone expert, I couldn’t resist asking about the Philippe Auguste wall.
At the end of the episode, Marie Segura from My Private Paris is in the studio discussing how best to visit her favourite Paris flea market at Saint-Ouen.
Listen below, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find the episode on iTunes or Spotify or via my website here.
The YouTube video
Here’s an actual look inside his studio – we filmed the interview part of the podcast!
A chip off the block
Grégory is a tailleur de pierre (aka stonemason) working in one of my favourite streets in the Marais – Rue du Prévôt. The setting of his atelier is really atmospheric and Grégory is working with the local town hall to develop the street to be a hub for other ancient trades. “It’s possible to make something really authentic here, because the street is authentic. And this activity (stonemasonry) or my neighbour, working with wood, it’s very authentic. That’s what people want to see, to feel.”
Not only does Grégory work as a contractor on assorted projects, but he also offers workshops for beginners. If the idea of this type of activity intimidates you, Grégory has some encouraging words for you. “Follow the steps – you draw and then you begin to carve. It’s not complicated. Everyone succeeds.” Honestly, the most challenging part is trying to figure out how to fit this carved stone into your luggage allowance to bring home.
If you want to find Grégory’s studio and book one of his stone-carving sessions, you can find it in the heart of the Marais or online here. Address: 12 Rue du Prévôt, 75004
This season of The Earful Tower is brought to you by My Private Paris, which is an award-winning travel company creating deluxe itineraries for Paris and beyond. See what they offer here and be sure to let them know that you came from The Earful Tower.
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