Mane

Located in the heart of Haute-Provence, Mane is a village rich in history, blending ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and architectural curiosities. Between the Via Domitia, the Salagon Priory, and its famous "pointed huts," discover a must-see site for heritage and culture enthusiasts. Let yourself be captivated by the unique atmosphere of this village, a blend of tradition and modernity.

Mane: a village at the crossroads of history

Mane, a picturesque little village in the Alpes de Haute-Provence, is a true testament to the region's history. According to experts, its name comes from the Roman goddess Mana Genita, protector of funerals. This site is above all a place of remembrance, dotted with ancient remains, such as aqueducts and necropolises, which bear witness to human occupation since prehistoric times.

The development of Mane accelerated from the 1st century AD, with the establishment of the via Domitia, one of the oldest Roman roads, which runs through the village. At that time, the Roman Empire established a provincial market here, the Forum Neronis, marking the beginning of a long trading tradition. Today, the remains of this ancient era continue to fascinate visitors and attract history buffs.

The Early Middle Ages shaped the village as we know it today. The highlight of this period is undoubtedly the Mane Citadel, a feudal fortification unique in Haute-Provence. This monument, dating from the 12th century, stands proudly in the heart of the village.

The cobbled streets of Mane, lined with old facades and picturesque fountains, contribute to the authentic atmosphere of the village..

VCC04-Thibaut Vergoz

What to do in Mane?

The Salagon Priory, a historic monument built on Roman remains, is today a museum and an ethnological gardenThis must-see site allows you to discover the history of the region through a rich collection of objects and testimonies from the past. The garden, meanwhile, offers a beautiful walk in the heart of Provençal nature.

Not far from Mane, Sauvan Castle is distinguished by its architecture inspired by the Petit Trianon at VersaillesThis 18th-century gem houses period furniture and beautiful gardens, and is an ideal stopover for lovers of history and antique decor.
pointed huts: witnesses to unique know-how

In the surroundings of Mane, you will also come across the famous “pointed huts”, often called “bories”These small dry stone constructions, without mortar, bear witness to remarkable ancestral know-how. While their origin is sometimes attributed to the Gauls, these huts date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, a time when the region's peasants used them as temporary shelters or for storage.

Hiking Idea

The Way of St. James passes through the village of Mane. Stage 8, between Forcalquier and Saint-Michel l'Observatoire Lincel, passes through Mane. It follows the Via Domitia and offers many opportunities to explore religious and rural heritage.

When to come to Mane?

Mane is lively throughout the year with events that bring together residents and visitors. Here are some highlights:

• Salagon, museum and gardens offers tours, exhibitions, concerts and various activities throughout the year.
• Summer is particularly suitable for concerts and festivals.
• The round of nativity scenes : In winter, in the Church of Saint-André, with its 25 figures, it is the nativity scene that has the largest number of old santons in the department. The santons are also classified! The clothes of the notable couple, characteristic of the fashion under the July Monarchy, allow us to date it from 1837. It is part of the living tradition of the "Round of Nativity Scenes".

AD04-Adrien Noat

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