Pertuis, Provence, France
We had the pleasure of visiting Pertuis, a vibrant town located in the heart of Provence, positioned at the southern gateway to the stunning Luberon massif. It serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby gems like Lourmarin, Cadenet, and the bustling city of Aix-en-Provence. Like so many Provençal towns, Pertuis invites visitors to lose themselves in its labyrinth of winding, narrow streets, where you can admire beautiful fountains, discover fragments of ancient walls, and feel the pulse of local social life.
Pertuis offers a more authentic, lived-in atmosphere compared to some of the more polished tourist hubs. Its historical core is a treasure trove of architectural details, from charming stone buildings to historic towers that speak of a rich and often turbulent past. As you wander, you’ll discover the town’s character, which is a perfect blend of medieval heritage and modern-day Provençal life, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Luberon hills.
Parking in Pertuis
We found an ideal parking solution in Pertuis at the "Parking Dévalade" (P: GPS: 43.695464, 5.500141), a huge and, most importantly, free parking lot located conveniently on the west side of the old town. This spacious lot provides ample room for visitors, making it a stress-free start to your tour of the historic center. Its location just outside the medieval walls means you avoid the narrow streets and can easily access the town on foot.
The proximity of the parking lot to the historic core makes it incredibly convenient, allowing you to begin your walk directly into the heart of Pertuis without any hassle. We highly recommend this spot for its ease of access and capacity, providing a perfect gateway to the town's charming streets and monuments. From here, you can simply walk into the old town and begin your journey of discovery.
Strolling the town
Our first stop was the tourist office, which is uniquely housed in a fascinating building with a clock tower (A; GPS: 43.694428, 5,501790). This impressive structure is actually a 12th-century donjon, a standalone defensive-residential tower that is the last remaining part of a grand castle built by Guillaume de Forcalquier. The tower’s enduring presence speaks volumes about the town's strategic past. Its iconic clock, produced in 1887, replaced a much older clock that had been marking time for over 400 years, a detail that perfectly encapsulates Pertuis's blend of history and continuity.
Adjacent to the donjon stands the beautiful Church of Saint-Nicolas, a significant religious monument dating back to the fifteenth century. This church became the main parish church after the earlier Church of Saint-Pierre was deemed unsafe due to the risk of collapse. The Church of Saint-Nicolas was subsequently expanded to accommodate the growing population, with a fourth nave added in the sixteenth century and a series of southern chapels integrated in the seventeenth century. These additions transformed the church into the impressive building we see today.
Continuing our walk by following the delightful streets of Rue Grande and Rue Sain-Jacques, we arrive at the commanding Saint-Jacques tower (B; GPS: 43.696178, 5.504178), a formidable structure from the 14th century. This tower holds special significance as it is the sole survivor of the seven towers that once fortified the town's defensive walls. As we delved deeper into the town's narrow streets, we were captivated by the sight of a particularly unique and verdant fountain—the Fontaine de la Diane, also known as the Diana Fountain. Its design is truly original, featuring a simple stone base from which a large limestone rock, lush with moss and various plants, emerges. At the very top, a statue of Diana, the goddess of hunting, is depicted with her loyal dog, overlooking the scene.
This charming fountain, built in 1830, is located in the appropriately named Place de la Diane (C; GPS: 43.694975, 5.504766). This square is a popular gathering spot for locals, especially during the warm summer months, as it is beautifully shaded by ancient plane trees. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the continuous, soothing sound of the fountain's water, makes it an ideal place to sit, relax, and observe the rhythm of Provençal life. It’s a perfect example of how Pertuis’s fountains are not just historical artifacts but living, functional parts of the community.
Gastronomy in Pertuis
The gastronomy of Pertuis is deeply rooted in the rich culinary traditions of the Luberon and Provence. The town's cuisine is defined by the high-quality local produce, including sun-drenched vegetables, fragrant herbs, and the region's famous olive oil and wine. Dining here is a celebration of fresh, simple, and delicious Mediterranean flavors.
What to Try?
- AOC Luberon Wine: The vineyards surrounding Pertuis produce excellent red, white, and rosé wines under the `AOC Luberon` appellation.
- Local Olive Oil: The region is famous for its olive groves. Be sure to taste the fresh, peppery, and fruity olive oil from local producers.
- Truffles (Truffe du Luberon): In season, you can find the renowned black truffles of the Luberon, often served shaved over pasta or eggs.
- Fruits and Vegetables: The local markets are bursting with fresh produce, including asparagus in spring, melons and tomatoes in summer, and a variety of colorful vegetables.
- Honey and Lavender Products: Taste the local honey, often infused with the scent of lavender and other wild herbs from the Luberon hills.
- Fougasse: A flatbread often decorated with olives or herbs, perfect for a quick snack.
Where to Eat?
- Provençal Bistros and Cafes: Explore the old town's narrow streets to find charming bistros serving traditional dishes and local wine.
- Farmers' Market: Visit the weekly market to buy fresh produce and prepared foods directly from local producers.
- Olive Oil Mills: Many local mills offer tastings and sell their products, providing a chance to learn about the production process.
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