Report on France's unique "ideal palace of Postman Cheval" At the bend of a street in Hauterives, in the Drôme, lies the "Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval", which means the "Ideal Palace of Postman Cheval". It's a unique mix of art and architecture which inspired surrealists, built by Ferdinand Cheval, a self-taught visionary who toiled for over 33 years from 1879-1912. The site was classified as a Historical Monument of France half a century ago, ensuring its preservation for future generations to marvel at. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES