Vaison-la-Romaine must-see tour

Step 1 Puymin and La Villasse

Start at the archaeological sites of Puymin and La Villasse, where you’ll discover the Roman remains of luxurious residences, residential quarters, artisanal businesses and public buildings. Continue your journey at the Théo Desplans archaeological museum, where rich collections immerse you in the religious, funerary and domestic practices of theRoman era, allowing you to grasp the daily life of our ancestors.

Then take a seat in the tiers of the sumptuous ancient theater, a veritable jewel of local history, which continues to resonate with concerts and shows, notably during the Vaison Danses festival and the Choralies, offering an unforgettable cultural experience.

On the Villasse site, discover the remains of wealthy private residences of exceptional dimensions, such as the 2,700 m2 Maison au Dauphin, recreated in digital images in the film shown at the museum.

On the road to the Théo Desplans museum

Step 2 Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth Cathedral And the Saint-Quenin chapel

Your journey continues to the Romanesque cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth, where an atmosphere of peace and serenity reigns in the cloister, the very heart of theancient medieval town of Vaison.

On the way back up, discover the charming Saint-Quenin chapel, a prime example of Provençal Romanesque art with its curious triangular apse, an architectural gem nestled in the heart of the town.

Step 3 The Pont Neuf and the Old Town

Cross theOuvèze by the Pont Neuf and plunge into the picturesque streets of the old town, where the high ramparts and fortified gate bear witness to its rich historical past. Take time to admire the old facades of bourgeois and working-class dwellings, as well as the mansions that dot your path, silent but evocative witnesses to a bygone era.

Step 4 Sainte-Marie-de-l'Assomption and rue des Fours

Continue your ascent via the Sainte-Marie-de-l’Assomption cathedral-church, located at the eastern end of the rock, from where you can enjoy a splendid view of Mont Ventoux and the Ouvèze, and admire the new stained-glass windows created by renowned artist Kim En Joong. Continue along the picturesque Rue des Fours to Place de l’Orme. Enjoy the refreshing shade of its fountain for a well-deserved break.

Visit Sainte-Marie-de-l'Assomption

Step 5 La Montée du Chapitre

Next, take the Montée du Chapitre and climb up to the 12th-century château comtal, solidly built on its rocky outcrop. A witness to medieval times, this former stronghold occupied by the soldiers of the Count of Toulouse offers a sumptuous panorama of the surrounding area from its pedestal, even if it is not possible to visit it.

Step 6 - From Rue des Fours to Pont Romain

Stroll down Rue des Fours through the charming cobbled streets to the shady old market square. Continue along the ramparts until you reach the ancient Roman bridge, a real link between the old town and the center of town. Classified as a ” Monument Historique ” in 1840, it has withstood wars and floods from theOuvèze. It is the widest bridge in Roman Gaul.

Step 7 Grand'rue and Place Montfort

Then head up the Grand’rue, a lively, year-round shopping street, to Place Montfort, the vibrant heart of the contemporary town, where you can relax and unwind.