Oppede le Vieux

Oppede is one of the most frank and wild villages of the Luberon. Built on a rocky spur, in a rugged setting of forests, combes and rocks, it contemplates a landscape of vineyards, olive trees, oaks and always keeps an eye on the villages perched around...

The mineral gem is located on the northern flank of the Luberon and its old village is a perfect balance between buildings, greenery and light, between mysteries and history. A timeless village dominated by the castle and collegiate church that take you in the middle of the Middle Ages.

Very preserved village, it is accessed from the compulsory parking lot of the Jardins de Sainte-Cécile where 80 species of trees, shrubs and plants of the Luberon grow. After walking through the streets of the old village, you will discover a spectacular ensemble: the Church of Our Lady of Alidon and the ruins of the castle.

At the foot of the old village, from the main square, do not hesitate to stroll towards the terraces Sainte-Cécile and the threshing area. You will have a very nice view of the village. Finally, go down to the hamlet of Poulivets enjoy the shade of plane trees on the square and the services of the new village of Oppède.

The new Oppede takes you to the twentieth century when all the inhabitants descended to the plain, more accessible and fertile and created the hamlet of Poulivets where they transferred the town hall, church, post office and school. A welcoming space bordered by plane trees, cafes/restaurants, plots...

Did you know? The Fortress of Oppede le Vieux

Of this impressive 13th century fortress, there are only a few ruins left, but what ruins!

Walls, arches, vaulted rooms and windows allow us to create a new space. imagine the past grandeur of this site. The castle belonged to the Maynier family of Oppède, whose Jean, President of the Parliament of Aix, enforced the royal decree and organized the massacre of 3000 Vaudois in Cabrières d'Avignon and Mérindol in 1545...