The name of Mollans-sur-Ouvèze, a village in the Drôme region, appears in texts as early as 992. The castle and fortified village of Mollans, belonging to the Mévouillon family, is mentioned as early as 1122. As such, the village is part of the Baronnies.
Arriving from Entrechaux, let us guide you along the avenue to park your car. After a few meters, you’ll be greeted by the majestic 1713 Dauphin fountain and its semi-circular covered washhouse, emblematic symbols of Mollans. Let yourself be seduced by this fountain topped by a dolphin, a proud reminder of the village’s belonging to the Dauphiné, opposite the medieval tower housing the Belfry.
Cross the bridge to enter the medieval part of the village. On your right, you’ll see the Chapelle du Pont, also known as Notre-Dame-de-Compassion, with its remarkable corbelled roof over theOuvèze river.
Explore the narrow streets of the old village and feel the importance of water to Mollans as you follow the signposted fountain trail. Opposite the covered wash-house, discover the former chapelof thePenitents, now transformed into an exhibition hall. Continue your exploration to the church of Saint-Marcel, part of whose interior furnishings are listed as a Monument Historique and well worth a visit.
The village is dominated by its imposing château, one of the most impressive fortresses in the Baronnies, reduced to its single 12th-century keep, bearing witness to its past grandeur. Although inaccessible to visitors, its imposing presence commands respect.
Did you know?
Have you heard of Coco de Mollans? This fleshy white bean can be eaten fresh or dried all year round. Hand-picked when ripe from a precisely delimited area, this bean is ideal for recipes such as pork stew or pistou soup. An ancient foodstuff, it owes its survival to a dynamic group of young farmers committed to the traditions of their land.