The Horloge square

The trompe-l'œil of the Clock courtyard

The Chambéry audio-guided tour has you take one of the many alleys of the city to reach the Clock courtyard, kept hidden from view. It is worth the detour for its surprising trompe-l'œil paintings.

The art of illusion of the Miami group

The trompe-l'œil paintings of the courtyard were created in 1993 by the Miami group, a Chambéry collective to which we also owe the side façade of the Charles-Dullin theatre. Trompe-l'œil is an artistic technique that creates an optical illusion, making elements that are in reality painted appear real. On the walls of this discreet courtyard, the effect is striking and transforms the space into a true set.

What there is to see

The Clock courtyard, hidden at the end of an alley, reveals its façades painted in trompe-l'œil, which play with perspectives and architectural details. It is a playful and surprising stop, away from the bustle, which reveals the talent of the Chambéry artists and the secret charm of the alleys of the city.

Practical information

The Clock courtyard can be discovered at the end of an alley leading from Place Saint-Léger, in old Chambéry. The courtyard and its trompe-l'œil can be contemplated freely during access hours, to be spotted along the walk in the alleys of the city.

Who created the trompe-l'œil of the Clock courtyard?

The Miami group, a Chambéry collective, in 1993; we also owe it the side façade of the Charles-Dullin theatre.

What is trompe-l'œil?

An artistic technique creating an optical illusion, which makes elements that are in reality painted appear real, as on the walls of the Clock courtyard.