Artemisia Museum
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County town of Provence
Nestled between the Luberon and the Lure Mountains, Forcalquier, a count's town in Provence, captivates with its rich heritage and Provençal atmosphere. Stroll through its picturesque streets, admire the view from the citadel, and be enchanted by its colorful markets and enjoy its many cultural and sporting events. Between gastronomic discoveries, nature, and Provençal traditions, this count's town promises you an unforgettable getaway.
A remarkable historical and cultural heritage
In the middle Ages, Forcalquier was the seat of the Counts of Forcalquier, an independent territory before its attachment to the County of Provence in the 13th century. This prosperous period left a strong imprint on the architecture and organization of the city.
One of the most emblematic symbols of Forcalquier is the Citadel, located on the former site of the Counts' castle. Today, only the Notre-Dame-de-Provence chapel (19th century) remains, built at its summit.
From this belvedere, a exceptional panorama opens onto the city and the surrounding landscapes, ranging from the Luberon to the Alpine mountains.
Did you know?
Besides the view, this place will amaze your ears! Indeed, next to the chapel you will discover one of the rare manual carillons of Provence which is played “with punches”.
On Sunday mornings and holidays you can hear his musicality on traditional tunes.
An important religious heritage
Forcalquier has a rich religious heritage, a testament to its history. Notre-Dame-du-Bourguet Cathedral, built between the 12th and 13th centuries, is a jewel of Provençal Romanesque art. It is distinguished by its massive bell tower and its sober interior.
Le Convent of the Cordeliers, founded in the 13th century, is another must-see site. This Franciscan monastery, now partly restored, is home to theArtemisia Museum for a dive into the heart of the aromatic plants of Haute-Provence, exhibitions and cultural events. Its cloister and garden offer a peaceful setting for a timeless break. The cinema is located in the chapel of the former Visitandine convent !
Access and location
Join Forcalquier
Forcalquier is easily accessible. From Aix-en-Provence, it's an hour's drive via the A1 motorway.
By train, with stations nearby (Manosque, La Brillanne) and by bus, from Aix-en-Provence or Digne-les-Bains.
What to do in Forcalquier?
Forcalquier is an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding nature. The trails of the Lure mountain offer magnificent landscapes between forests, rocky ridges and vast plateaus. Lovers of nature walks will also appreciate the Luberon Regional Natural Park, accessible a few kilometers away.
Sports and thrill-seeking enthusiasts will find numerous activities in Forcalquier: mountain biking on routes suitable for all levels, hot air balloon flight to admire Provence from the sky, horseback riding along the lavender fields and in the Provençal forests...
Hiking idea
From the county town, follow the path that will take you to the Rochers des Mourres, an exceptional geological site where nature, in its magic and mystery, reveals all its beauty.
The Forcalquier market: a Provençal institution
Every Monday morning, the Forcalquier market is one of the liveliest in Provence. In the squares of the city center, the stalls are full of local products : goat cheese, lavender honey, olive oil, truffles, aromatic herbs and local wines seduce gourmets. It's the perfect opportunity to meet local producers and to taste Provençal authenticity.
Ideas for a stay in Forcalquier
A stay idea designed by us to help you discover the city and the surrounding area from different angles...
Where to stay?
For your vacation in Forcalquier, explore our selection of hotels and campsites to suit all your needs.
Where to eat?
During your stay in Forcalquier, whether you prefer savory or sweet dishes, you can sample many of the region's specialties. Our restaurant owners are happy to offer local products to amaze your taste buds.
When to come to Forcalquier?
The city vibrates all year round to the rhythm of its events, between cultural and sporting festivities. Here are some highlights:
- The Haute-Provence Trail (spring): An iconic nature race offering several varied routes in landscapes typical of Provence.
- The Musical Meetings of Haute Provence (summer): An unmissable popular festival celebrating the lavender capital, with parades of flower-covered floats and entertainment for young and old.
- The Bee and Honey Festival (August): Beekeeping and local agriculture festivals. Local producers offer honey, cheese, olive oil, biscuits, saffron, beer, etc.
- The round of nativity scenes (winter): In winter, the Notre Dame du Bourguet Cathedral displays a Provençal nativity scene with more than 100 santons, part of the living tradition of the “Ronde des crèches” around Forcalquier.
A writer: Pierre Magnan
You will be fine inspired to unearth a book by Pierre Magnan, in this city where he lived and wrote many of his novels.
Many of his stories take place in and around Forcalquier: the listed cemetery with its clipped yews, the Mourres rocks with their strange shapes, the mountain of Lure and its herbalists, the Sauvan castle in Mane…
Enough to visit the area with a book in hand!
Answers to your questions
The surrounding villages not to be missed