Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Café des Arts, located in the centre of Mens, south of Isère in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is an emblematic establishment with its original décor. Its two fronts and its interior, decorated with frescoes of the late nineteenth century, were inscribed in historical monuments by order of 23 January 1989. This place combines an old style, with woodwork, wooden tables and antique mirrors, with a rich wall decoration, including cherubs and local landscapes.

The frescoes of the Café des Arts, made in 1895, are the work of the picard painter Gustave Riquet (1866–1938), then in resort at his uncle's in Mens. During his stay, he decided to represent rural scenes and landscapes of Matheysine and Trièves, two natural regions of southern Isère. The older woodwork and fronts date back to 1856. The establishment, still in operation in the 21st century, remains a living testimony of art and social life of the late 19th century.

The café-restaurant is located at the corner of Boulevard Édouard-Arnaud and Rue Saint-Giraud, near Mens City Hall. Although private property, it is accessible to the public according to the opening hours set by its owner. Its partial inscription in historical monuments specifically concerns both fronts and interior decoration, highlighting their exceptional heritage value.

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