Nestled in the hills of Hérault, in southern France, La Borie Noble is one of Europe's longest-standing and most fascinating communities. Founded in the 1960s by Lanza del Vasto—a philosopher, poet, and disciple of Gandhi—this community is built on the principles of nonviolence, self-sufficiency, and shared spirituality.

The project was born as a refuge for those seeking an alternative way of life, away from consumerism and the fast pace of modern society. Over the years, La Borie Noble has welcomed hundreds of residents, volunteers, researchers, and travelers from around the world, becoming a vital center for spreading Gandhi’s teachings.

Permaculture and self-sufficiency

At La Borie Noble, the connection with Mother Earth is at the heart of everything. Organic farming and permaculture form the foundation of food production, including grains, vegetables, fruit, and small-scale livestock farming.

Bread is made using flour milled on-site and baked in an ancient wood-fired oven, while renewable energy sources minimize reliance on external systems.

Craftsmanship and shared resources

Handicrafts play a central role in daily life at the community. Here, weaving, woodworking, and ceramics are not just trades but expressions of a conscious and creative way of life.

Residents share tools, resources, and skills, fostering a mutual aid economy where every object is valued, and every ability is placed at the service of the community.

Spirituality at La Borie Noble

One of the most distinctive aspects of La Borie Noble is its spiritual dimension. The community follows a daily practice of prayer and meditation, inspired by Gandhi’s teachings and influenced by both Christian and Eastern traditions.

The pursuit of inner peace is reflected in relationships among residents, who embrace nonviolence as a guiding principle in everyday life and conflict resolution.

The decision-making model

Decisions are made collectively, through regular meetings where every voice matters. This participatory governance model strengthens the sense of community, allowing the village to balance tradition and innovation. Dialogue is the foundation of coexistence, transforming every challenge into an opportunity for shared growth.

In conclusion

Amid the peaceful hills of France, the community of La Borie Noble stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking a genuine and peaceful life. Here, prayer and meditation inspired by Gandhi intertwine with working the land through permaculture. Every day, the community practices nonviolence in a tangible way, drawing its strength from harmony with the Earth and the spirit.