Gordes, classified as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, is a perched marvel offering spectacular views over the Luberon regional nature park. This typically Provencal village, with its whitewashed dry-stone houses, narrow winding streets and imposing château, is a must-see for visitors to Provence.
History and Medieval Charm
The village of Gordes stands proudly on a rocky spur, overlooking the Imergue valley and the Vaucluse plateau. Its strategic position has been used since Roman times, but it was in the Middle Ages that Gordes acquired its current structure, with the construction of its fortified castle and ramparts. Over the centuries, the village has preserved its medieval charm and architectural heritage, despite wars and revolutions.
Château de Gordes
The Château de Gordes, which dates back to the 11th century and was remodeled during the Renaissance, is the historic heart of the village. Today, it houses the town hall and a cultural space for art exhibitions and events. Its facade combines medieval military austerity with Renaissance elegance, reflecting Gordes’ rich and complex history.
An Arts and Crafts Village
Gordes has always been a source of inspiration for artists. In the 1950s, the village became a major art center, attracting painters, sculptors and writers, seduced by its exceptional light and idyllic setting. Today, numerous art galleries and craftsmen’s workshops line the narrow streets, perpetuating the village’s artistic tradition.
Life in Gordes
To stroll through the narrow streets of Gordes is to discover an unspoilt way of life, where every stone, every door and every window tells a story. The weekly market is a must, where local producers offer cheeses, olive oils, Luberon wines and other Provencal delights. The terraces of cafés and restaurants offer gourmet breaks with a view, inviting you to savor the moment in an exceptional setting.
Around Gordes
The area around Gordes is full of remarkable sites: the Abbaye de Sénanque, a jewel of Cistercian art surrounded by lavender fields; the Village des Bories, an astonishing collection of dry-stone buildings; and the many hiking trails that criss-cross the Luberon, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Provencal countryside.
