Apt

Apt, often called the capital of the Luberon, offers a genuine slice of Provençal life, far from the polished perfection of some of its more famous neighbors. Its roots stretch back over two millennia, making it one of Provence's oldest continuously inhabited towns. Founded as Apta Julia by Julius Caesar in 45 BC, it quickly became a strategic hub, a crossroads where goods, cultures, and armies once converged.

Today, Apt retains its authentic character, a living town where history is layered into every stone and street. It's a place where Roman foundations peek through medieval walls, and locals gather weekly for a market that has run for nearly a thousand years. Apt doesn't just exist for visitors; it lives its truth, making it a deeply rooted and authentic experience in the heart of the Luberon Valley.

## From Roman Stronghold to Medieval Center Apt's story begins with the Romans, founded in 45 BC by Julius Caesar as Apta Julia. Its strategic location on the Via Domitia, the ancient Roman road connecting Italy to Spain, ensured its importance as a trade and military hub. During its Roman peak in the 2nd century, Apt was a prosperous urban center with a forum, triumphal arch, capitol, temples, baths, and a theater, even hosting Emperor Hadrian. Traces of this Roman past, including fragments of aqueducts and remnants of the old forum, lie beneath the modern town.

After the Roman era, Apt faced destruction by Lombards and Saracens, but its fortifications were rebuilt by the Counts of Provence. The High Middle Ages saw the construction of the Cathédrale Sainte-Anne, beginning in 1052, which stands as one of France's oldest Christian worship sites. The cathedral's significance grew further with the traditional rediscovery of Saint Anne's relics in the 8th century, transforming Apt into a pilgrimage center. In 1660, Anne of Austria, mother of the future Louis XIV, visited Apt to pray at the cathedral, boosting the veneration of Saint Anne.

## Candied Fruit and Faience Flourish Beyond its Roman and religious heritage, Apt developed a reputation for its culinary and artisanal traditions. By the 14th century, candied fruit became a specialty, with historical texts noting offerings to Popes and the appointment of Apt confectioners to the papal court in Avignon. Madame de Sévigné famously described Apt as a "cauldron of jam" in the 17th century, a testament to its burgeoning jam industry. Today, Apt is recognized as the world capital of candied fruit, a "Remarkable Site of Taste."

The town also has a long pottery tradition, thanks to its clayey soil and ochre. The unique "aptesian marbling" or "terres mêlées" style of faience pottery, a clever mix of colored clays, originated here, with the industry peaking in the 18th century.

Apt offers a blend of historical sites and authentic Provençal experiences. The Cathédrale Sainte-Anne is a significant structure, with architectural styles spanning from the 11th to the 18th centuries. Its crypts, particularly the lower one, reveal foundations dating back to a 1st-century Roman building. Wander through the old town's narrow, winding streets, discover vaulted passages, and relax in tree-filled squares with their fountains. Remnants of the old Roman city's fortifications, such as the Porte de Saignon gate and the Hospital Tower, can still be seen.

No visit to Apt is complete without experiencing its legendary Saturday market. Running for over 900 years, it's one of Provence's oldest and most enduring traditions, transforming the old town with over 300 stalls selling local produce, cheeses, charcuterie, lavender, Provençal fabrics, and of course, the famous candied fruits. A smaller farmers' market takes place on Tuesday mornings, and during truffle season (November to March), a truffle market is held on Saturday mornings at Place de la Bouquerie.

For those interested in Apt's sweet specialty, visit La Maison du Fruit Confit to taste and buy candied fruit and explore a museum about its history. The Musée d'Apt also offers insights into the town's history and archaeology, built upon the ruins of a Roman theater. Just outside Apt, near Bonnieux, stands the remarkably preserved Pont Julien, a Roman bridge dating back to 3 BC that carried traffic for over two millennia.

Apt experiences a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, damp winters. The best time for hot-weather activities is from early July to mid-August, when temperatures average around 85°F (30°C) with minimal rainfall and clear skies. However, this is also peak visitor season, meaning larger crowds.

For a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in spring (April-May) or early autumn (September). September offers warm days, comfortable temperatures around 77-82°F (25-28°C), and the start of the grape harvest, with markets overflowing with late-summer produce and the first truffles. Spring brings wildflowers and a gentle warming, ideal for walking. Winters are quieter, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, offering a different, more serene experience.

Apt is centrally located in the Calavon Valley, making it a practical base for exploring the Luberon region. It's about 30 km east of Cavaillon and 50 km from Avignon. If driving, parking is available along the Calavon River near the old town entrance. The streets in the old town are cobbled and uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The main tourist office is located at 788 Avenue Victor Hugo.

While public transportation connects major hubs, a rental car is more practical for reaching smaller villages in the Luberon. On Saturdays, especially during summer, the market draws significant crowds, so arriving early is advisable for easier parking. A free shuttle service operates between the tourist office and the market in July and August. Apt offers various amenities, including restaurants, shops, medical clinics, and accommodation options like self-catering apartments in the old town.