Lorgues: Heritage between Chapels and the Middle Ages

Lorgues offers culture-minded travelers several distinct historical themes: a fortified Ligurian settlement dating to around the 4th century BC, medieval defensive architecture, chapels and religious art. The history of fountains and washhouses, along with summer guided tours, adds to the picture. The sites can be understood in terms of their respective periods, functions and distinctive features.

From the Ligurian Settlement to the Medieval Route

The Oppidum of Saint-Ferréol is a fortified Ligurian settlement dating to around the 4th century BC; it was excavated in 1977. The two dates mark different points in time: the approximate dating refers to the settlement, while 1977 refers to its excavation.

The Porte Sarrasine was part of the defensive complex built by the Templars and stood on the medieval route between Brignoles and Grasse. Merchants, pilgrims and soldiers used this route. The gate can therefore be viewed both in connection with the defensive complex and with traffic along the medieval route.

Chapels and Church Architecture

The religious buildings span further periods. The Chapelle Saint-François was built by the Grey Penitents between 1633 and 1640. The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Benva dates from the 15th century; its frescoes are listed as historic monuments. The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Belval has been listed as a historic monument since 25 April 1929.

At the Collégiale Saint-Martin, the building and its furnishings come together. The church, listed as a historic monument, was built between 1704 and 1729. Its organ, also listed as a historic monument, was made in 1837 to the designs of organ builder Augustin Zeiger. The construction of the Collégiale and the making of the organ are separated by a considerable span of time, allowing the history of the building to be distinguished from that of the instrument.

Fountains, Guided Tours and Hiking

The Fontaine de la Pompe saved the inhabitants from dying of thirst during the siege of the town in 1579. It was later converted into a washhouse for the local population. Its history thus connects two different uses: water supply during a siege and, later, everyday use as a washhouse.

The Amis de Saint-Ferréol et du Vieux Lorgues offer guided tours throughout the summer of the old town, the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Ben-Va, and the hermitage of Saint-Ferréol and its museum of sacred art. Dates and access conditions may vary. If you plan to take a tour, check the specific dates and conditions in advance.

Another way to spend time outdoors is the La campagne de Pey-Cervier hiking trail. This easy family trail is 5.4 kilometres long with 150 metres of elevation gain; the stated duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes. The distance, elevation gain and time estimate can help you fit the trail into your day’s plans. Check trail conditions locally.

Discover more destinations: Carces, Artignosc-Sur-Verdon, Pourrières, Chateaudouble, Mazaugues, Fayence, Saint-Antonin-Du-Var, Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume.

For the broader travel overview: Var.