Château des Baux de Provence

The site of the Château des Baux is perched on the top part of the rock and overlooks the village. The site covers more than 5 hectares; it is one of the most extraordinary sites in France and is a protected National Historic Monument.

Visitors discover the main vestiges of the Château's tumultuous past. A series of 24 illustrations tells the story of the Château as it was in the Middle Ages. Like a big story book, the illustrations bring the different parts of the building back to life. 27 panels located throughout the site explain local history and geography.

Viewpoint indicators add to the information and point out the key sites of Provence and Camargue, which stretch before you, as far as the eye can see. Audio-guides tell the history of the château, relate the past of Provence and take you on a journey back to the time of the Knights, rebel lords, wars, jousts and lonely damsels. With the audioguides, the vaulted ceilings of the chateau come to life with medieval music, voices of warriors and laughter at the banquets.

Audio-guides are available in 10 languages langues (F, GB, D, I, NL, E, J, R, C, P) and are given free of charge to visitors so they can visit the site on their own and at their own pace.

The dungeon is the best example of this military architecture. Anchored to the rock since the late 12th century, it appears to be the last rampart of this unassailable fortress. Decorative remains adorn the high walls, with sculpted and decorated bases showing Saint Michael slaying the dragon and the griffin. In the base of the dungeon isa Gallo-Roman votive stele; with mysterious sculpture of the Trémaïe (or the Three Marys). Some think this shows the effigies of the Virgin Mary, Mary Jacobe and Mary Salome.

See all the events and activities scheduled all year long, at www.chateau-baux-provence.com