Les Baux de Provence: A Journey Through Time in the Heart of the Alpilles
Les Baux de Provence is a beautiful commune in southern France's Alpilles mountains. It is a place of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The commune is famous for its stunning vistas, picturesque streets, and historical landmarks, making it a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide. In this blog post, we will closely examine what makes Les Baux de Provence so unique.
History
The Village has a rich and colorful history dating back to prehistoric times. The area was inhabited by the Celts, who the Romans later followed. During the Middle Ages, the town was a major center of culture and art. It was ruled by the powerful Lords of Baux, renowned for their military prowess and patronage of the skills. The town peaked in the 12th and 13th centuries when it was home to some of the most brilliant minds of the time, including the famous troubadours.
However, as with many towns and cities in Europe, the town was devastated by the Black Death in the 14th century. The population of Les Baux de Provence was decimated, and the city never fully recovered. By the 16th century, the town was all but abandoned.
Today, Les Baux de Provence is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a place where visitors can explore the town’s rich history, admire the stunning architecture, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Sights and Attractions
Les Baux de Provence has many beautiful sights and attractions that will delight visitors. Here are just a few of the most popular:
The Chateau des Baux: The Chateau des Baux is a stunning castle atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the town. The castle dates back to the 10th century and was home to the Lords of Baux. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and halls and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The Carrieres de Lumieres: The Carrieres de Lumieres is a unique and fascinating art installation housed in an old quarry outside town. The facility features a series of projections projected onto the quarry's walls, creating an immersive and unforgettable visual experience.
The Eglise St. Vincent: The Eglise St. Vincent is a beautiful Romanesque church that dates back to the 12th century. The church is a true masterpiece of medieval architecture, with stunning vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and beautiful stained glass windows.
The Musee des Santons: The Musee des Santons is a fascinating museum dedicated to the santon's art. Santons are small, hand-crafted figurines used to create traditional Nativity scenes. The museum features various santons and information on the history and tradition of santon-making.
The Jardin d’Alcinoos: The Jardin d’Alcinoos is a beautiful botanical garden outside town. The park features various plants and flowers and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The Village: The village of Les Baux de Provence is itself a sight to behold. The town is filled with picturesque streets, ancient buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, take in the local architecture, and soak up the unique ambiance of this beautiful town.
Food and Drink
Les Baux de Provence is a food lover’s paradise. The region is famous for its delicious cuisine; Les Baux de Provence is no exception. The town is home to many excellent restaurants and cafes, where visitors can indulge in the local delicacies and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean.
One of the most popular dishes in the region is bouillabaisse, a fish stew made with a variety of local fish and shellfish. The hash is typically served with rouille, garlic, and olive oil-based sauce, perfect for dipping bread.
Another local favorite is ratatouille, a vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The stew is typically served as a side dish or as a main course with a side of rice.
Les Baux de Provence offers many delicious options for meat lovers, including lamb and beef dishes. One of the most popular lamb dishes in the region is lamb confit, made by slow-cooking the meat in its fat until it is tender and flavorful.
And, of course, no visit to Les Baux de Provence would be complete without trying the local cheeses and wines. The region is famous for its goat cheese, typically served with a side of honey or fig jam. And the local wines, which are made from grapes grown in the surrounding vineyards, are a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Shopping
Les Baux de Provence is also a great place for shopping. The town is home to many boutique shops and galleries, where visitors can find unique and one-of-a-kind items.
The Santons Market is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Les Baux de Provence. The market is held annually in the weeks leading up to Christmas and features various hand-crafted santons and other Christmas decorations and gifts.
Another popular shopping destination is the Galerie des Baux, which features a wide variety of contemporary art and sculpture by local and international artists.
For those looking for more traditional souvenirs, many shops sell local crafts, such as pottery, textiles, and hand-woven baskets.
Activities
Les Baux de Provence offers many activities for visitors of all ages. Here are just a few of the most popular:
Hiking: The Alpilles mountains are a beautiful place to hike. Many hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy to challenging, offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Wine Tasting: The region is home to many vineyards and wineries, and visitors can take tours and tastings to learn more about the local wines and the winemaking process.
Cycling: The area is also great for cycling, with scenic routes and trails suitable for all skill levels.
Art Exhibitions: The Carrieres de Lumieres hosts many art exhibitions throughout the year, featuring the works of local and international artists.
Horseback Riding: Many stables in the area offer horseback riding tours of the surrounding countryside.
Festivals: Les Baux de Provence hosts many festivals throughout the year, including music festivals, cultural festivals, and food festivals.
Conclusion
Les Baux de Provence is a beautiful town with a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. It is a place that offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, food, wine, or outdoor activities. With its many sights and attractions, delicious cuisine, unique shopping opportunities, and wide range of activities, Les Baux de Provence is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to southern France. So why not pack your bags, hop on a plane, and see for yourself what makes Les Baux de Provence so
