Le Barroux

This little village, perched on the rocks, is known for it's château. Built in the 12th century the château belonged to the lord of Baux. It was then passed onto several noble families before being converted, in the 16th century into one of the most beautiful renaissance homes in the region.

During the revolution it was damaged and then sold and abandoned in the 19th century and had to wait until 1929 for reconstruction. Unfortunately in 1944 it was further damaged when German troops set it on fire as a reprisal for acts of resistance. the owners were not discouraged though and began reconstruction again in 1960.

It is said that Prince Charles spent a week at the château in 1990 (with rumours abound as to whether Camilla was with him or not!).

Today only part of the château can be visited but it still possesses some medieval elements and a chapel decorated with 18th century wall paintings.

The château, and village, look out over the Comtat Venaisson plain but this photo is taken from the other side of the village, from a spot next to the monastery which I will come to next week....

you might have already looked - but if not - this will definitely be better large.