Gordes is one of those typical villages set high up in the Lubéron. Forming some of the most beautiful ensembles built in Provence, they dominate the large agricultural lands that enable the region to live and that are component elements of the Provencal scenery and heritage.

Gordes is located in the Lubéron nature reserve and is built on a steep headland on which the drystone houses are risen in terraces. Walking through the alley-ways, the traveller discovers magnificent old doors, warm-coloured vaults or a view of the Lubéron valley and its mountains.

At the top of the rock, the Church of the Assumption and the Renaissance castle, built by Bertrand de Simiane on the site of a Middle Age fortress, face each other. Today, the castle has within its walls, the town hall, the Pol Mara museum (Pol Mara is a contemporary Flemish artist), and, since 1970, the Vazarély museum.




A few miles from Gordes is the village of Les Bories where you can see about ten limestone constructions. "Bories" are round huts made of drystone that were used until the 19th century by shepherds.



Near Gordes, the Cistercian abbey of Sénanque is worth a visit. It was built in 1148 by monks from Ardèche. The abbey's architecture is bare, sticking to the Cistercian Order's ideal of sobriety and purity. The abbey is still lived in by monks who make honey, lavender essence and liqueurs. Sénanque is also a very lively cultural centre: Gregorian chant concerts, medieval music and a foundation dedicated to the Sahara.

Gordes : the town's history, places to visit, the village of Les Bories, accommodation and restaurants.

Provence : culture, arts and crafts, gastronomy and tourism are gathered on this gateway website to help you learn everything about Provence.

Sénanque Abbey : the history of the Cistercian abbey, visiting hours, a visit of the building and retreats.