Montsalvat is an artists’ colony in Eltham, a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Established by Justus Jorgensen, the colony is set among gardens on five hectares of land, and is home to dozens of buildings, including houses, halls, studios, galleries and stables.-Wikipedia
I visited this place together with some of my friends, a few weekends ago. We chose to explore Montsalvat, a brief drive from our homes. The sight of the grand gate immediately hinted at the promising adventure that awaited us.
These large iron gates border the car park and were recycled from Wilson Hall (University of Melbourne).
BARN GALLERY
This is the first building where we paid the entrance fee and inside is a gallery.
COURTYARD
Numerous charming cottages dotted the estate, creating a picturesque scene that left us uncertain whether to turn left or right – every direction seemed equally photogenic.
LAWN AREA
Turned the corner and was surprised to see this serene place by the lake…
We sat and had snacks and enjoyed the view from the wooden bench under the Weeping Willows.
There were also in abundance, flowers in the wild.
This is the oldest artist colony in Australia so it was a feast for the eyes with sculptures scattered all around the estate.
GREAT HALL
Montsalvat is an opulent estate that was established by Justus Jörgensen after he purchased the land in 1934. And true to his plan he created this Great Hall which is a place, where all were welcome to come, visit and do their art.
POOL TERRACE
There was even a pool that looked so inviting but sadly wasn’t open to the public.
FRENCH HERITAGE AREA
Some quaint French-style ambiance.
LILY’S COTTAGE (Jorgensen House)The house is a fine example of French rural architecture.
THE OLD DINING HALL
The building has a very French look in its style similar to Lily’s Cottage. In the olden times, the ground floor was the meeting place for evening meals.
White Mud Brick Barn and Stable Studios
What an enjoyable day we’ve had strolling and taking photos.
What a loveLy place Techie.🥰
Thanks Arlene. Not far from where I live.
Ang ganda.🥰
Oo nga e. Ang peaceful.
What a magnificent place, Teresa. Those sculptures look wonderful. Many thanks for sharing.
My pleasure Jo! I know… those sculptures are just amazing and so many of them. There were some that were just on the ground…maybe rejects of students. But all equally beautiful in my eyes.
🤗🩷
This location is absolutely breathtaking. The sculptures are truly remarkable.
Thanks it really was on both 👍👍
NOW, you tell me. 😉
It looks lovely. I got back in December from a trip to Australia. Melbourne was one of the cities I visited. I wish I had gone to Montsalvat.
I loved my trip and I’d like to return, but it’s a long way from my home in Toronto, Canada.
I know how you feel. On the top of my bucket list is the Rockies but dreading the long haul flight.
Beautiful place. No wonder it inspires so much art.
Wonderful photos!
Thanks a lot Nes. Its wide spade is great for the different workshops.
What a wonderful place to visit. The cottages are so picturesque and I loved many of the sculptures 🙂
I know right. And to think it was so near. I didn’t even know it existed until I chanced upon it on a show called The Bachelor Australia haha
Really charming architecture! Thanks for the photos.
My pleasure Rebecca ❤️
Fun place. Enjoyed your adventure vicariously to this little gem.
Glad we did visit it! Thanks Mama.