In the Middle Ages, the village of Villedieu was a Commanderie of the Hospitaliers de Saint-Jean-de-Jérusalem and a Templar stronghold attached to the Commanderie de Roaix. Nestling on the edge of the Drôme region, this village welcomes you to a rolling landscape of vineyards, olive groves and pine forests.
As soon as you arrive, your eyes will be captivated by the imposing ramparts, more than 10 metres high, enveloping the ancient heart of the village.
As you walk along these walls, your steps will naturally lead you to the Place de la Libération and its fountain, which make the very center of Villedieu a place where people meet and share, where life is good.
As you stroll along, let yourself be charmed by the proud 12th-century belfry, and by one of the three gates pierced through the ramparts, proudly displaying one of the last remaining authentic papal escutcheons in the department, as well as a 16th-century clock.
As you pass through these gates, you enter the old village, where the narrow streets invite you to stroll. This is where you’ll find the 12th-century Romanesque church of Saint-Michel. Its 18-metre-high bell tower rises majestically on the site of the medieval castle’s former keep.
As you continue your stroll, discover the Renaissance townhouses with their mullioned windows. And don’t forget to look up for the ” Virgin of Smiles ” on a nearby house, a Renaissance-style statue of the Virgin adorned with a scallop shell, testimony to the talent of ceramic artist Alice Colonieu.
Villedieu belfry in spring
Village of Villedieu
Villedieu village square
View of the village of Villedieu
Villedieu village square and fountainVILLAGE SECRET
An entire network of underground passageways is said to run beneath the village and beyond. A tiny part of it has been uncovered. Secret network and means of escape and rescue? Work of the Knights Templar? Only a gigantic investigation could unravel the mystery.
