Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a village in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is a place where natural beauty and human craftsmanship converge. Situated at the western entrance to the Gorges du Verdon, it is framed by towering limestone cliffs, with a spring flowing through the village that creates a waterfall. The village is recognized as one of "The Most Beautiful Villages of France" and is celebrated for its traditional faïence pottery.

Walking through Moustiers-Sainte-Marie reveals narrow pathways, stone houses with terracotta tiles, and the gentle sound of fountains. The village's unique character is further enhanced by the dramatic landscape, offering captivating views from its elevated positions. It serves as a gateway to the Verdon Natural Regional Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders, including the Gorges du Verdon and Lake Sainte-Croix.

From Monks to Master Potters

The history of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie dates back to the 5th century when monks from the Lérins Islands founded a monastery, giving the village its name, derived from the Latin "monasterium." The village developed significantly in the 12th and 13th centuries with the construction of buildings, fortifications, houses, and mills. However, the 14th century saw a decline due to the plague and wars of succession in the Comté de Provence.

The 16th century marked a period of resurgence with the growth of hydraulic industries, including paper mills, tanneries, and potteries. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie's reputation truly blossomed in the 17th century with its delicate faïence earthenware. This tin-glazed pottery, known for its finesse and quality, became highly sought after, even by King Louis XIV. The industry flourished until 1873, but it was revived in 1925 by Marcel Provence, who reignited the village's pottery tradition. Today, numerous workshops and a dedicated museum continue to preserve and evolve this ancestral craft.

Beyond its pottery, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is also known for the legend of the golden star suspended between two cliffs above the village. Popularized by the Provençal poet Frédéric Mistral, one version of the legend tells of a knight, Bozon de Blacas, who, after being freed from Saracen captivity during the Crusades, vowed to hang a star in homage to the Virgin Mary if he returned home. The star, a symbol of the Blacas family coat of arms, has been replaced multiple times over the centuries.

Begin your exploration by simply wandering the village's narrow pathways, taking in the pastel-colored houses and trickling fountains. A memorable experience is the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel, which requires an uphill trek of approximately 262 stone steps. The reward is sweeping views of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the surrounding landscape, including Lake Sainte-Croix. In the heart of the village, visit the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, a Romanesque church with a distinctive Lombard bell tower and a Gothic choir. Do not miss the Museum of Faïence, which showcases five centuries of the village's renowned pottery, from 17th-century masterpieces to contemporary pieces.

Beyond the village, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is ideally situated for exploring the Gorges du Verdon, often called the Grand Canyon of Europe. You can drive along scenic routes, hike trails, or rent a kayak to paddle through the turquoise waters of the canyon. The nearby Lake Sainte-Croix offers opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and pedal boating. If visiting between mid-June and mid-July, a short drive to the Valensole Plateau will immerse you in fields of blooming lavender.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is pleasant to visit from spring through fall. For lighter crowds and comfortable temperatures, consider the off-season months of March, April, May, September, and October. If seeing the famed Provençal lavender fields in bloom is a priority, late June to early August is ideal, though summer temperatures can be high. Lavender is typically harvested in mid-July, so plan accordingly for peak bloom. June to August is also the best time for water activities in the Verdon Gorge.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is best reached by car, with the closest airport being Nice, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive away. The village is accessible via the A51 motorway (Manosque exit). Several paid and free car parks are available around the village, though arriving early during peak season is advisable. A small train connects the lower car parks to the historic center. While credit cards are widely accepted, carrying some cash for smaller purchases is recommended. The village sits at the base of cliffs that shade it for much of the morning, so mornings can be cool; pack a sweater. The local Tourist Office is located at Place de l'Eglise. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie has a population of approximately 683 residents.