Porte Saunerie, Provence Travel Guide

4.1 (272)

Step back in time at Manosque's Porte Saunerie, a historic gateway offering a glimpse into the town's rich medieval past and architectural charm.

Home
Travel Guides
France
Provence
Porte Saunerie

The Porte Saunerie, or Salt Gate, is a beautifully preserved medieval gate in Manosque, France, dating back to the 12th century. As a historical landmark, it provides a glimpse into the town's rich history and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Porte Saunerie

Porte de la Saunerie, Manosque, 04100, FR
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Porte Saunerie.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos.
Explore the nearby streets to discover charming shops and local eateries.
Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque area surrounding the gate to soak in the stunning landscapes of Provence.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Palais des Papes

Château des Baux-de-Provence

Provence Cross

Troglodyte caves of Villecroze

UNESCO Géoparc de Haute-Provence - Musée Promenade

Explore Porte Saunerie on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Porte Saunerie, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Manosque, the Porte Saunerie is easily accessible on foot. Head towards Rue de la Saunerie; the landmark is well-signposted and reachable within a 10-minute walk.
Public Transport

From the Manosque train station, located approximately 2 km from the Porte Saunerie, take bus line 10 toward Manosque Centre. Alternatively, it's about a 25-minute walk from the station to the gate. Bus lines 114 DLVA and 66 also stop near Manosque. A single bus fare costs around €2.
Taxi/Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available in Manosque. Provide the driver with the address: Porte de la Saunerie, 04100 Manosque. The cost will vary depending on your starting location.
Car

If driving, take the A51 motorway towards Manosque and exit at junction 18. Follow the signs towards the city center and navigate to Rue de la Saunerie. Limited street parking is available nearby, and fees may apply. Several parking lots are available in Manosque, including La Poste, La Villette and Le Terreau. Parking in Manosque is free between 6:30 pm and 8 am and all day on Sundays, Mondays and public holidays.

Discover more about Porte Saunerie

The Porte Saunerie, a historic gate in Manosque, France, stands as a testament to the town's medieval past. Constructed in the 12th century and completed in 1382, this impressive structure was one of four gates that once provided access to the city. Its name, derived from its proximity to the Rue Saunerie, hints at its historical importance in the salt trade, a vital aspect of the region's economy. The name Saunerie comes from the Provençal word 'saunarié,' meaning abattoir.This southern gate showcases a Romanesque architectural style, featuring thick stone walls, elegant arches, and machicolations. The central structure is defended by two drop hatches. Walking through the Porte Saunerie transports visitors back in time, with cobblestone streets leading to charming shops and cafes. The gate is a classified historical monument.Today, the Porte Saunerie remains a captivating landmark, inviting visitors to explore Manosque's rich history and soak in the unique atmosphere of this Provençal town. The city's coat of arms is represented beneath the gate.