Why is there a hidden sausage tucked away in a drawer of a table at the Auberge Ravoux?

Published by Graziella de Sortiraparis · Updated on December 27, 2025 at 04:30 p.m.
Behind the historic walls of the Auberge Ravoux lies a story just as rich and intriguing, though far less tragic than that of Van Gogh. Did you know that the renowned André Malraux, former Minister of Culture and a frequent visitor, left behind an unexpectedly playful mark on the place?

While the Ravoux Inn is renowned worldwide as Van Gogh's former home, it also served as a gathering place for many influential intellectuals of the 20th century. Among them was the renowned André Malraux. The former Minister of Culture, deeply passionate about the history of the village and the spirit of the Dutch painter, was a regular here, often seen at his favorite table.

Nestled just beside the window to enjoy the sunlight of Auvers, this table conceals a rather unusual secret. Malraux was an avid fan of regional cuisine, especially a good charcuterie. To honor his memory, the caretakers of the place established a charming tradition: a sausage is always placed inside the drawer of his table.

It's those little touches that give Auberge Ravoux its distinctive charm, straddling the line between museum and living space. If you drop by, you'll notice the table where the spirit of the minister still seems to linger... but beware, you're advised against opening the drawer for an impromptu snack—the sausage is purely symbolic!

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52 Rue du Général de Gaulle
95430 Auvers sur Oise

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