Mission Stéphane Bern
The selection of La Serre for this prestigious support is a turning point in its history.
Learn below how you can participate.
A precious lifeline for Serre de la Madone
The French TV personality Stéphane Bern heads a mission focused on preserving fragile French heritage in all its diversity. The mission is a part of the Fondation du Patrimoine, supported by the Ministry of Culture and FDJ United.
From over 700 submissions for 2025, the mission chose 18 sites to support, one of them being Serre de la Madone, the only garden selected!
Our preservation project was named “Emblematic Project of 2025” for the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
A helping hand
In the words of Gilles Deparis, ASJEM Director: “This recognition will make it possible to undertake essential work to preserve and enhance this botanical gem, designed by Lawrence Johnston in the heart of Menton. Thanks to this support, we will be able to continue passing on the exceptional legacy of this living heritage, while strengthening its role as a place of history, biodiversity, and culture”.
La Fondation du Patrimoine (Heritage Foundation) is committed to making a significant contribution of 100,000 euros to help with preservation efforts and ensure visitor security. You can add to the foundation’s contribution by donating here.
In addition, the Mission Bern also sponsors an annual lottery, supported by the Foundation and FDJ United,with proceeds destined to financing the mission’s projects. You can help grow its contribution to Serre de la Madone by purchasing tickets for the Loto du Patrimoine this September at any lottery vendor in France.
You may also make a gift directly to Serre de la Madone by using the “Donate” button at the top of this page.
Support for an ambitious program
Restoration of Serre de la Madone is already underway, since the beginning of 2025. Planned in phases, projects include restoration of the heated greenhouse, a pergola, stone walls, and the belvedere, as well as updating the boutique, modernization of waterworks (pools, fountains, and waterways). Also planned are the replantings of citrus, beds, hedges, cacti and water gardens. The villa will be stabilized, a new nursery created, and statuary restored.
Heritage is not restricted to stone, it also grows!
You can help!
The Mission Stéphane Bern, via the Heritage Foundation and its more than 1,000 volunteers are dedicated to preserving this important heritage and bequeath it to future generations. You can stand with them by donating.
If you are an individual or company that pays taxes in France, your donation is eligible for a tax deduction of up to 66% or the amount of your gift. For details on these deductions (in French), click here.
Remember also to purchase your Loto du Patrimoine tickets in September!