Protected since time immemorial by its virtually impregnable location atop a rocky outcrop, Venasque is considered one of the most authentic villages in the Comtat Venaissin, to which it gave its name.
This authenticity is recognized by the French Historical Monuments authority and reinforced by a 1967 municipal ordinance prohibiting any exterior alterations to the houses and requiring that ruins be rebuilt exactly as they were.
The Baptistery
In Venasque, the first site to admire is the “Baptistery,” a beautiful religious building originally constructed in the 6th century. It is a four-lobed structure in the shape of a Greek cross, featuring semicircular apses, blind arcades, and columns reused from ancient structures.
Along with the baptisteries of Fréjus, Aix-en-Provence, Riez, and Poitiers, it is one of the oldest religious buildings in France. It is located on Place du Presbytère, to the left of the main entrance to Notre Dame Church.”
Tel.: 04.90.66.62.01
Free for children under 12
Romanesque Church, Roman Towers, and Lookout Point
Another point of interest is the Romanesque church dedicated to Our Lady, which houses a famous painting from the Avignon School (1498)—a “Crucifixion” that was only returned to its church after many misadventures.
Nor can one visit Venasque without pausing to admire the Roman towers built to defend against Saracen invasions.
From the esplanade in front of the towers, there is a splendid view of the entire northern Comtat, all the way to the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range and Mont Ventoux (1,912 m).
Heading back down toward Carpentras along the road that winds around the rock, you’ll pass a small (deconsecrated) church and the standing stone commemorating the miraculous leap of Saint Siffrein’s horse.
Finally, how can you resist the pleasure of strolling through these picturesque narrow streets and squares, or failing to fall in love with the washhouses and fountains you’ll come across here and there?
Venasque is one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.
Vénasque and Monts de Vaucluse Tourist Office
Grand' Rue
84210 Venasque
Tel/Fax: 04 90 66 11 66
https://www.venasque.fr/accueil.html
