Visit to the Château des Baux-de-Provence
The Château des Baux-de-Provence is a semi-troglodyte fortress in ruins dating back to the 11th century. It partially survived numerous wars before falling into oblivion in the 17th century for almost two centuries. In the 20th century, it found a prominent place in local tourism.
Today, the castle still has much to tell…
The proud Sarrasine tower defended the castle from attackers, as did the Hare’s Hole, but also from the wind. « The troglodyte houses allow us to imagine the daily life of its inhabitants in the Middle Ages.
The lord and his family lived in the imposing keep, whose walls can be admired on the edge of the cliff.
The dovecote reminds us that breeding pigeons to feed the population was the norm at the time, and the bread oven house shows that bread was present at every meal. Outside, replicas of the war machines used in the Middle Ages allow you to visualize the fierce battles fought by the lords.
You will discover all of this while strolling freely through the Château des Baux-de-Provence, where explanatory panels provide you with the keys to understand everything.
And then there’s the view. From the top of the castle, the view of the villages, the garrigue, and the Val d’Enfer is simply stunning.
Hours and prices
Throughout the year, the Château des Baux is open every day:
- In January, February, November, and December, from 10 AM to 5 PM.
- In March and October, from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
- In April, May, June, and September, from 9 AM to 7 PM.
- In July and August, from 9 AM to 8 PM.
On certain dates of the year, primarily during school holidays, the visit to the castle may include activities. The activities help to better immerse oneself in the past and understand daily life in the Middle Ages.
The prices without activities are €8 full price, €7 for seniors, and €6 for minors, students, and job seekers. A family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children is offered at €25. Certain individuals, such as children under 7 years old or people with reduced mobility, do not pay. An audioguide is provided.
With activities, individual prices increase by €2, and the family ticket is €33.
Combined tickets with the Brayer Museum and the Carrière des Lumières are available.
The castle is located in Les Baux-de-Provence, about a half-hour drive south of the campsite near Avignon. It is one of the must-see attractions during your holiday in Avignon. It will appeal to medieval history enthusiasts and children, who can imagine exciting stories of knights.
