Crestet is an exquisitely preserved, stone constructed, medieval village, perched on a ridge in the Dentelles de Montmirail, overlooking the Ouveze River Valley. Built to defend the local population during the invasions of the Middle Ages, the village has declined from 700 at its peak to less than a hundred permanent residents.
Crestet is an exquisitely preserved, stone constructed, medieval village, perched on a ridge in the Dentelles de Montmirail, overlooking the Ouveze River Valley. Built to defend the local population during the invasions of the Middle Ages, the village has declined from 700 at its peak to less than a hundred permanent residents.
At one time, the Bishop of Vaison made his residence here. The center of the village is the Romanesque Church and a Renaissance fountain. Narrow, steep cobblestone streets wind through stone pathways lined by Renaissance houses, and unusual artifacts surprise visitors at different spots. The village is very quiet and has an almost spiritual feel to it. Pilgrims gather here at a local spring on August 15 and September 8, hoping that the waters will cure various eye diseases. The 12th century castle has had a spectacular renovation, though cannot see this from the outside. It is privately owned and not open for visits
Do not expect streets filled with tourist shops and restaurants. There are no commercial establishments except for a tiny village café—Le Panoramic-- on top of the village (open only April 15-Sept 15.) You can enjoy the village much as it was in the Middle Ages. Be sure to visit the ancient church by the fountain inside the village, as well as the tiny, recently restored 16th century chapel, Notre-Dame de l'Annonciade. In past centuries the chapel was used to store firewood, since the school was right next door. (The school is now located at the bottom of the hill, across from the Mairie.)Read more...
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