Multi-Levels of Roussillon and Bell Tower

This photo demonstrates perfectly the levels of the mountain-top villages of Provence.  Here in Roussillon, you can see three levels of the town.  The church is always at the highest point.  In this photo, the bell tower is topped with a wrought-iron belfry which is very Provencal.  It is almost like a bird cage for the bell.

Church Ruins - Eygalieres

 (click on pictures for larger image)

It is amazing that the highest position on the hilltops are usually always dominated by churches.  These are two separate ruins of two different churches atop the same hill in the beautiful, scenic town of Eygalieres in Provence.  They date to the 13th century.

St. Jean de Malte Church

This is a hugely historic church.  It was originally located in an olive grove outside the walls of Aix-en-Provence, in a priory belonging to the Knights Templar.  You can even see the Maltese Cross of Knights Templar over the door.  During the French Revolution, it was converted to a military storehouse, and its paintings and treasures were plundered.  It was then converted back to a church.

The famous Blessing of the Calissons takes place in this church.  The Calisson is an almond cookie, and it was distributed as Holy Bread as a protection against the plague.  Today the Calisson is one of the epicurean delights of Provence.

Medieval Provencal Church

(click for larger image)

A medieval church with a belltower hugs the road near Les Alpilles in Provence.  Every little village has its church.

Steeple Dominates Skyline of Saignon

Like most mountain-top villages, the steeple of the Catholic church is the highest point in the village, and the church is built on the highest point. It would be a major chore to walk to church on Sunday morning.

Inside a Village Church

Inside a village church.

Church Facade

Pictured is a church facade in Rousillon. Notice the ochre in the building.

View From the Terrace

The panorama above was my view for hours and days at a time when I sat at a terrace cafe perched on a hillside, writing software and eating a Savoyard pizza. A Savoyard pizza is a woodfire pizza with bacon and potatoes on it. It is the best tasting pizza that I have ever had in my life.