The name Mollans-sur-Ouvèze, a Drôme village, appears in texts in 992. The fortified castle and market town 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 yourself be guided along the avenue to park. Then walk a few metres to 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, discover the Chapel of the Bridge, also known as Notre-Dame-de-Compassion, remarkable for its corbelling above the Ouvèze.
Explore the narrow streets of the old village and feel the importance of water for Mollans by following the signposted fountain trail. Opposite the covered lavoir, discover the former chapel of the Penitents, now converted 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 definitely worth a visit.
The village is dominated by its imposing château, one of the most imposing fortresses in the Baronnies, reduced to its single keep dating from the 12th century, bearing witness to its past grandeur. Although inaccessible to visitors, its imposing presence commands respect.
Mollans Sur Ouveze
