The medieval city

On the Pont Romain, as your footsteps echo over the old stones, look up and let yourself be enchanted by the majestic silhouette of the medieval town of Vaison-la-Romaine. Enter a world where the past comes alive before your very eyes.

The narrow cobbled streets and stone houses that seem frozen in time instantly transport you back to the 12th century, when the town was the scene of conflict between the Count of Toulouse and the bishop. The ensuing pillage prompted the population to abandon the valley for the rocky heights. The fortified architecture of the old town bears witness to these turbulent times, with its imposingramparts and fortifiedgates.

Over the centuries, new buildings emerged in the valley, extending the history of the old town as far as the Pont Romain. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the people of Vaisonnais turned their attention to the lower town, gradually abandoning the old town.

The medieval town, also known as Haute-Ville, can be reached after walking along the ramparts and the Belfry. The latter offers a picturesque panorama overlooking the town, dominated by the château comtal. In the past, access to the city was protected by emblematic gates such as Porte Vieille, also known as Porte St Quenin, and Porte Neuve. These gates, guardians of the city’s security, were closed every evening from 10pm to 4am, reflecting the importance attached to protecting residents from external threats.

From the Place du Vieux Marché, once the hub of the Upper Town’s economic activity, you can admire the remains of the wall that once encircled the Jewish quarter. Panoramic views of the valley and Mont Ventoux from the “Planet” add a touch of poetry to the medieval atmosphere of the cobbled streets, lined with ancient mansions and Comtadine fountains.