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A path of memory The emergence of the Chapelles project

The origins of the Chemin des Chapelles

The Chemin des Chapelles project was born in 2019 out of a genuine human adventure, marked by encounters, mutual support and a shared passion for preserving historical and cultural heritage. The initiative came about thanks to the commitment of two local associations: theAssociation pour la Sauvegarde de la Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Argelier and the Amis de la Chapelle Saint-Laurent, based in Buisson and Villedieu respectively. Each of these associations had the initial aim of restoring the chapels in their villages, but it was by joining forces that they came up with a much broader project.

The Chemin des Chapelles concept and objectives

The central idea of the project was to create a link, a pathway connecting over 40 identified chapels in the Communauté de Communes de Vaison Ventoux Provence. This network of chapels, often forgotten or ignored, was to become a real thread running through the territory, enhancing the architectural and historical heritage of the surrounding villages. The Chemin des Chapelles was therefore born as an invitation to discover and preserve these buildings, which are an integral part of the local identity and history.

From the outset, the idea was based on several major objectives:

  • To create a hiking trail linking chapels and villages, offering visitors an immersive experience in the beauty and diversity of the local heritage.
  • Offer themed trails that tell the story of each chapel, its inhabitants and its traditions.
  • Unite local economic players, in particular winemakers, olive growers, innkeepers and artists, to become ambassadors for their region, offering visitors unique discoveries and a warm welcome.
Chemin des Chapelles - Rencontres au fil de l'Histoire
Chemin des Chapelles - Rencontres au fil de l'Histoire
Chemin des Chapelles - Rencontres au fil de l'Histoire

Involvement of the Tourist Office in the realization of the project

TheVaison Ventoux Provence Tourist Office was an essential partner in bringing the Chemin des Chapelles to fruition. As a key player in local tourism development, the Office not only validated the viability of the project, but also lent its expertise in planning, strategy and management.

Throughout the design and implementation stages, the Tourist Office worked closely with local associations, accompanying and guiding them in the research required to ensure compliance with heritage preservation standards.

It also played a key role in communicating and promoting the project, working to disseminate information and promote the Chemin des Chapelles through various media, such as brochures, websites and local events. Through its actions, the Office has raised the profile of the project, not only locally but also regionally, attracting an ever-growing public eager to discover this unique historical and cultural trail.

Thanks to its expertise in sustainable tourism and local development, the Tourist Office has helped make this project much more than a simple hiking trail: it has become a genuine tool for promoting heritage, integrating a responsible, environmentally-friendly approach to tourism development.

An Accomplished Project Preserving and enhancing our heritage for the future

The project began in 2019, and after several years of research, work, partnerships and the commitment of an entire community, the Chemin des Chapelles is now complete. Much more than a simple hiking trail, it now constitutes a living network of places of memory, offering visitors immersion in local history, nature and culture through unique experiences.

This project, the fruit of many years of preparation and collective effort, guarantees the preservation of the chapels for future generations, while strengthening the social and economic ties at the heart of our territory. Thanks to everyone’s involvement, this route has become a true symbol of solidarity and enhancement of local heritage.

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