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Château de Lourmarin: A Renaissance Jewel in Provence

Discover Château de Lourmarin, Provence's first Renaissance castle, where history, art, and stunning views converge in the heart of the Luberon, offering a rich cultural experience.

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Nestled amidst vineyards and olive groves, Château de Lourmarin stands as a proud testament to Provence's rich history and architectural evolution. This captivating castle, the first Renaissance castle in Provence, seamlessly blends medieval foundations with elegant Renaissance additions. Visitors can explore furnished rooms showcasing centuries of art, furniture, and musical instruments. Beyond its historical significance, the Château hosts diverse cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical performances, making it a vibrant hub for artistic expression. A visit promises an immersive journey through time, offering stunning views of the surrounding Luberon landscape and a glimpse into the refined lifestyle of bygone eras. The castle also provides engaging treasure hunts for younger visitors, making it an ideal destination for families.

A brief summary to Château de Lourmarin

  • Monday 10:30 am-12 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-12 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Château's event calendar before your visit to enjoy a concert, exhibition, or theatrical performance.
  • Take advantage of the free parking near the Château, but arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
  • Explore the village of Lourmarin after your visit to discover local shops, restaurants, and the Friday market.
  • Participate in the treasure hunt offered for young visitors to make the visit more engaging for children.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone paths and climbing stairs within the Château.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Lourmarin village (e.g., the intersection of Cours Henri de Savornin and Avenue Philippe de Girard), the Château de Lourmarin is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk. Head northwest on Avenue Philippe de Girard, then turn left onto Avenue Laurent Vibert. Continue along Avenue Laurent Vibert; the Château will be visible on your left. The walk is mostly uphill, but the views are rewarding. Note that the final approach involves a short, inclined path to the entrance.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus (ZOU! lines 909 or 919) from a nearby town, disembark at the 'Centre' or 'La Bastide' bus stop in Lourmarin. From either stop, follow the walking directions above to reach the Château (10-15 minute walk). A single bus fare costs approximately €3. Consider downloading the ZOU! app for schedules, but double-check times at the bus stop as the app may not always be accurate.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Lourmarin and follow signs for 'Château'. Free parking is available near the Château (Parking Calinou, Parking des Cerisiers, Parking du jeu de boules), but spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and market days (Friday mornings). From the parking areas, it's a short walk to the Château entrance. Parking is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis or ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the Château de Lourmarin entrance. A taxi from nearby towns like Apt or Bonnieux will cost approximately €45-€90, depending on the distance and time of day. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Château de Lourmarin

Château de Lourmarin, gracefully positioned overlooking the charming village of Lourmarin, is a captivating blend of architectural styles and historical significance. Often called the 'Villa Médicis of Provence', this castle offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region's rich heritage, combining the austerity of its medieval origins with the elegance of its Renaissance additions. The Château's story began in the 12th century as a fortress, but it was in the 15th century that Foulques d'Agoult, chamberlain to King René I of Anjou, transformed it into a more refined residence. The oldest section of the castle, constructed between 1480 and 1526, showcases a late Gothic style. In 1526, Louis d'Agoult-Montauban and his wife, Blanche de Lévis-Ventadour, began constructing the Renaissance wing, which is celebrated for its unity and purity of style. Construction ceased around 1560, leaving a lasting mark on the Provençal landscape. Over the centuries, the Château passed through various hands, including the Créqui-Lesdiguières family, who, despite owning it, never resided there. During the French Revolution, the Château narrowly escaped destruction, but it fell into disrepair in the 19th century. It was Robert Laurent-Vibert, a Lyon industrialist and scholar, who rescued the Château from ruin in 1920. Seduced by its charm, he meticulously restored it between 1921 and 1923, relying on historical documents provided by his friend Edouard Aude, the curator of the Méjanes library in Aix-en-Provence. Laurent-Vibert bequeathed the Château to the Academy of Sciences, Agriculture, Arts, and Belles-Lettres of Aix, with the vision of creating a residence for artists. Today, the Robert Laurent-Vibert Foundation of Lourmarin continues this legacy, hosting artists in residence and organizing a variety of cultural events throughout the year. These events include exhibitions, conferences, concerts, and theatrical performances, making the Château a vibrant cultural hub in the Luberon region. The Château's architecture is a major draw for visitors. The blend of medieval and Renaissance styles is evident in its structure, featuring a double spiral staircase, Italian loggias, and Renaissance windows. The interior is richly furnished with collections of furniture from the 16th to the 19th centuries, engravings, objets d'art, and musical instruments. The castle also houses two beautiful libraries and two vaulted rooms in the medieval section, opened to the public in 2019. From the terraces, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the village of Lourmarin and the Luberon mountains. The Château's park and gardens provide a tranquil setting for a stroll, with olive groves and vineyards adding to the Provençal charm. The castle also offers a fun treasure hunt for young visitors, making it an ideal destination for families. Throughout the year, the Château hosts a variety of events, including the Festival Yeah! in early June and the Summer Music Festival from July to October. The Association of Friends of Lourmarin also organizes conferences on diverse themes, such as truffles and lavender. The Château is open every day except for December 25th and January 1st. Opening hours vary depending on the season, with longer hours during the summer months. Admission prices are €8 for adults, €6.50 for reduced rates, and €3.50 for children aged 6 to 12. Children under 6 are free. While visiting the Château, take note of the surrounding village of Lourmarin, known for its charming streets, shops, and restaurants. Lourmarin is easily accessible by bus from Aix-en-Provence and Apt, and there is free parking available near the Château. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Château de Lourmarin offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Provence.

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