Dromon Chapel and Crypt

Probably built in the 11th century, this chapel is a truly spiritual place. It nestles in an impressive natural setting that invites humility and meditation.

Clinging to the side of the rock, Notre-Dame de Dromon is exceptional for its early Romanesque crypt. The chapel was restored and enlarged in 1682; despite numerous alterations, it retains important Romanesque features. Originally, the church had an apse and two apsidioles opening onto a nave and two side aisles.
The sculptures in the crypt reflect several influences (Roman tradition, Provençal Romanesque art, Byzantine art) and the alabaster capitals have no equivalent in Haute-Provence. They are said to date from the 10th century and feature motifs known from Merovingian art (peacock, rams' heads and testicles, braids, etc.). Part of the Dromon rock, protruding into the crypt, evokes the belly of a pregnant woman; this "fertility stone" certainly refers to a pagan cult predating the Christian era.