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Le Paradou - 1

Le Paradou, Alpilles

Paradou, locally called Le Paradou, is a small medieval town full of charm located between Les Baux-de-Provence and Maussane-les-Alpilles, at the foot of the Alpilles chain. It is the Provençal village par excellence! It is good to stop there, to discover its rich past and to taste its sweetness of life.

What makes this village special?

Le Paradou is the Provençal name given to the old water mills which were used to beat woven wool, used by the weavers settled along the Arcoule river. The village takes its name from there, but in the Middle Ages it was called Saint-Martin-du-Castillon. Paradou has preserved very pretty stone houses, pastel shutters, flower gardens and charming alleys that invite you to take the time to live. The town has many craft shops, cafes and restaurants where you eat well.

The village was an oppidum in the 2nd century BC. Archaeological excavations have unearthed a Roman stele, burials, a small votive altar and a truncated statue from the 1st century BC, carved in limestone. and discovered in the 19th century : the “Lion de l'Arcoule”. These objects are now part of the collection of the Musée de l'Arles Antique. It is possible to visit the site of the old castle, of which only three towers, dating from the 13th century, remain. A walk on the paths will make you discover the oratories, the beautiful farmhouses and the chain of the Pène dominated by the towers of Castillon.

If you like santons, go visit La Petite Provence du Paradou, a miniature village populated by nearly 400 santons over 500 square meters. These works are the result of the work of the best santon makers in France. We find there the villagers, the houses, the animals, the objects, and all the little details of the Provençal nativity scene. The most beautiful exhibition of figurines in the region!

Don't miss the small Provençal market on Tuesday mornings! An enchantment!

Location

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