Travelers love to visit historic sites, but they often don’t realize the preservation efforts constantly required to maintain these landmarks. Voluntourism offers a unique way to get to know a site. In France, La Sabranenque has been arranging restoration projects for travelers for over 40 years. Learn more about the program below and remember to tune in to Peter Greenberg Worldwide this weekend for more information. Plus, don’t forget to check out our archive for all kinds of voluntourism opportunities.

La Sabranenque volunteers help preserve French cultural heritage and maintain historic sites for future generations. The organization offers one-week programs during the summer at the medieval site of St. Victor la Coste in Provence, France. Situated on the west side of the Rhone, between Avignon and Orange, there is a fortress that towers over the village of St. Victor la Coste. Within the village’s historic walls are a church, fountains, chapels, and a scientific obelisk honoring Galileo and Newton.

From Monday to Saturday, workers have the opportunity to contribute to the architectural maintenance of this landmark. As an added bonus, Thursday is a free day, where volunteers may enjoy the beauty of southern France and the peaceful village of Provence.

This year, sessions run from the first week of May until September 27, 2014. The majority of stays are one week, but there is a possibility of an extension. Typically, guests must arrive by 12pm on the Monday morning of their volunteer week and depart by the next Sunday before 10am.

There is limited space, so visitors must sign up for the program in advance. The organization provides food and housing for volunteers for a small fee. You must be at least 18 years old, in good physical health, and have health insurance. For more information, visit the website at www.sabranenque.com or e-mail info@sabranenque.com.

By Darra Stone for PeterGreenberg.com