The perched villages of the Luberon
The Luberon is a Provencal region rich in small typical villages. Halfway between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, its lush fauna and flora made it a Regional Natural Park in 1977.
I was not able to visit every village. But to discover this authentic Provencal painting, I have concocted a colorful photo report!
I had the opportunity to go to these two cities of the south:
- Manosque : Meeting the largest French commune typically Provencal
- Forcalquier : A rich historical city, Provençal and having a past as a county town.
Manosque
Manosque is the largest city in the Alpes de Haute Provence with 22,000 inhabitants and in a way “its economic capital”. The Occitane de Provence factory can be found in its outskirts.
Manosque doesn’t really present a particular photo interest for my taste. So I would not advise you to linger there.
There is on the other hand the house of the writer Jean Giono who can be visited and makes us travel in time.
House of Jean Giono: the Paraïs
The writer Jean Giono (1895-1970) was born and died in Manosque (04). He is one of the most important writers of 20th century French literature. The house of Jean Giono has also been labeled “Maison des Illustres” in 2011.
His spirit is always present in his house which can be visited. There is a collection of about 8,000 books in every corner. He leaves behind a variety of souvenirs and archives.
Forcalquier
Less than 5,000 inhabitants and yet it is the 6th largest city in the department! This small town is very photogenic because architecturally very homogeneous.
The weekly Monday market in Forcalquier is a tradition. It is the most important of the Alpes de Haute Provence department, and certainly one of the most beautiful markets of Provence. It is also one of the most typical Provencal markets in the region. It is a warm and friendly meeting place. It gives way to the different perfumes of fresh olives, spices and local specialties.
The Luberon is its surroundings
According to your desires, here are some more villages to visit:
- La Bastide des Jourdans : Meeting the artists and craftsmen of stones
- Saint Martin de la Brasque : The unavoidable market and the warmth of the village will enchant you.
- La Motte d’Aigues : Taste the wines of the south and discover its vineyards classified “AOC Luberon”.