We went to the old town of Les Baux, which controlled a large part of southern France in the 11th c. In 1426 Les Baux was incorporated into Provence and France. It struggled with the French king, who responded by destroying the fortress in 1483. Its association with the Huguenots brought destruction again in 1632 when Richelieu, under King Louis XIII, demolished the castle.

There was quite a climb up to the town from the parking lot.

We are on the way.

The view of the city from the main square.

The 12th c. Romanesque St. Vincent Church was built short and wide to fit the terrain.

      
The interior of the St. Vincent Church.

      
In that same square was the Chapel of the Penitents, very plain on the outside, but with spectacular nativity scenes by a local artist, Yves Brayer, covering the walls.

Remains of the fortress can be seen from various point in the town.

Looking back towards the town as we walk back to the parking lot.

From there we great views of the surrounding countryside.

We next drove to the area near St. Remy.