A château sits regally on a hilltop near Loumarin in Provence. These lordly houses usually had an attached chapel, vineyards and various outbuildings of that denoted the wealth and agriculture potential of the owners.
Trees grow on the top tier of the village of Bonnieux built on a mountain top. Through the trees in center is visible, a crucifix (cross) on a pedestal, which is typical of the historic Catholic culture of France.
This old rock wall abuts the wall of a hilltop village. A solitary grape vine grows against the ancient rock and doorway lintel. The mortar is made with ocher.
Here is a schematic of the the village of Bonnieux showing how the tiers work on a hilltop village.
Besides ocher and vineyards, Provence is also known for it lavender fields. Pictured outside this souvenir shop, is lavender art.
A white pepper sauce on a perfect steak with roast potatoes, peas, a side salad and vegetables, washed down with a wonderful Cote de Luberon rose wine. This was just lunch.
The town slowly awakens in the morning. A merchant puts out his wares while a villager lights a cigarette and strolls to a cafe for his morning coffee.
The village square is decked out with the French tri-colour to celebrate Victory Day, Armistice in 1945. The French suffered horribly in World War II.
I am always amazed at the stately old buildings in the Provencal villages. It attests to the early wealth of the denizens of this land. This is a magnificent, multi-story building on a hilltop overlooking the valley.
I snapped this pic as we drove under the ramparts of a hilltop village in Provence.
There is nothing more interesting than market day in Provence villages. Here a vendor sells honey products. The stalls in the rear sell clothing items.
I am getting Google queries with the most beautiful towns in France. Actually the French government designates 152 as the most beautiful towns in France. Here is my top ten list:
