Saint-Michel l'Observatoire Lincel

Nestled between the Lure Mountains and the Luberon massif, Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire Lincel, two villages grouped together in one commune, is a place rich in history and culture. Known for its Haute-Provence Observatory, the commune also boasts remarkable medieval heritage with its 12th-century church and historic ramparts. Astronomy enthusiasts and heritage lovers will find this an ideal destination for exploring the stars and the treasures of the past.

Saint-Michel l'Observatoire

Men have frequented the territory of the commune since prehistory, oppidums have been identified there and the the route of the ancient Domitian Way (Via Domitia) passed through it. We can still see, for example, the Reculon ford which crossed the Largue.

The village boasts a rich heritage built since the Middle Ages. The Church of Saint-Michel, built in the 12th century, but also the Romanesque tower of Porchères, the Château d'Agoult, as well as several churches, chapels and a millThe fief of Saint-Michel was part of the county of Forcalquier in the 12th century, and of the families of Agoult from the 14th to the 18th century.

Lincel

Lincel is also on the route of the Via Domitia, the ancient Domitian roadThis village perched on top of a hill at an altitude of 600 m overlooks the Largue River. The village's roots can be traced back to the XNUMXth century with the Layncel family (which later became Croze de Lincel), one of the oldest members of the Provence knighthood.

At the end of the 19th century and with the industrial revolution, the village exploited its rich subsoil for lignite ore. Mining ended after the Second World War.

Around Astronomy

THEObservatory of Haute-Provence (OHP) of Saint-Michel l'Observatoire, managed by the CNRS, enjoys an exceptional location in Europe. Today 13 domes are in use. It is worth noting that the first exoplanet (51 Pegasi b) was discovered in 1995 thanks to the 1,93 m diameter telescope and its “Elodie” spectrograph. Guided tours of the large dome and the iconic telescope are organized regularly.

Le Astronomy Center welcomes schoolchildren, young people on vacation, enlightened amateurs, families and other curious people throughout the year.

Le Haute-Provence Planetarium offers a unique experience for young and old, combining the screening of an immersive film with a presentation of the sky guided and commented by a scientific mediator.

The Astronomy Center and Planetarium of Haute Provence

More information about the Astronomy Center and the planetarium

What to do in Saint-Michel l'Observatoire Lincel?

Saint-Michel l'Observatoire Lincel is in the heart of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, where hiking and cycling are key activities.

Some architectural curiosities

The Friends of Saint-Michel association has restored an old windmill, dating from 1838Since 2010, the millstone and sails have been powered by a motor during guided tours. From grain to flour, learn all about how a windmill works.

The Romanesque Tower of Porchères is one of the most beautiful military towers of the 12th century. A village was built around it at the beginning of the 17th century. It houses the tomb of thehistorian and poet Léon de Berluc-Pérussis (felibre friend of Mistral).

The Tourist Office is now located in the Agoult Castle, a beautifully restored ancient castle.

Religious monuments

The Upper Church or Saint-Michel church dates from the 12th century. Listed as a Historic Monument, it was built by the Benedictine monks of the Abbey of Saint-André in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. It notably features a stone capital sculpted with animals in the Romanesque style.

La St. Paul's Chapel, from the 12th century, listed as a Historic Monument, depended on the Priory of Carluc. The parish church or Church of Saint-Pierre dates from the 14th-15th centuries.

THEChurch of Saint Mary Magdalene of Lincel, also listed as a historic monument, is a pretty little Romanesque church, covered with flagstones.

La Chapel of Saint-Jean-de-Fuzils is a former hermitage from the 11th century, listed as a Historic Monument.

Hiking idea

From the village, a nice 2-hour walking loop offers beautiful panoramas of the Lure mountain and the Valensole plateau. The circuit, in the shade of oak trees, passes close to the Haute-Provence Observatory.

Where to stay?

For your vacation in Saint-Michel l'Observatoire, explore our selection of hotels and campsites to suit all your needs.

Our selection of accommodation in Saint-Michel l'Observatoire and the surrounding area

Where to eat?

During your stay in Saint-Michel l'Observatoire, whether you prefer savory or sweet dishes, you'll enjoy a variety of local specialties. Our restaurant owners are delighted to offer local products to delight your taste buds.

Our selection of restaurants in Saint-Michel l'Observatoire and the surrounding area

When to come to Saint-Michel l'Observatoire Lincel?

The city vibrates all year round to the rhythm of its events, between cultural and sporting festivities. Here are some highlights:

• Throughout the year : The Astronomy Center and the planetarium offer observation evenings with the eye and instruments, observations of the Sun, sessions at the planetarium, conferences as well as scientific events...
• Astro Summer Festival : every summer, starting in July, the Astro Summer Festival brought together more than 10 visitors with twilight picnics, naked-eye and instrumental observations, conferences, evening events and guided tours of the Haute-Provence Observatory.
• The round of nativity scenes In winter, the Sainte-Madeleine Church in Lincel offers a nativity scene with contemporary figurines. A dry stone decor and village scenes around the Nativity, part of the living tradition of the "Ronde des Crèches".

Answers to your questions