La Vieille Eglise

This is the Old Church at the top of the village; in fact it is quite a climb to get to it. Even, after you have struggled almost to the top, there are still 86 steps to get you up to the church. Unless of course you are living like we are at the top anyway, then it’s just a short stroll across and no steps involved at all!

I wandered across this afternoon (it was very hot). And was surprised to find the church open. Previously, it has always been locked. So this had to be my blip for today – to record the first time I have been inside the church. I think there must have been some sort of service in the offing, as quite a few people were gathering as I stepped outside. The church is now only used for a few special services, weddings, funerals and concerts. It does have a huge crib at Christmas, created by a very talented and dedicated young man in the village.
   
The Old Church was built in the 12th Century when Bonnieux was an enclave of the Pontifical State, administered by Rome or Avignon. Hence there can still be seen around the church what were once the magnificent residences for ecclesiastical dignitaries.