Ansouis

Ansouis, a hilltop gem among the ‘Most Beautiful Villages of France’

Château d’Ansouis: A thousand years of history in the heart of the Luberon

Perched on its rocky outcrop and majestically overlooking the Aigues valley, the Château d’Ansouis stands as a true witness to the passage of time. Built in the 9th century, this impressive fortified building played a major strategic role in the Middle Ages, when the village was a fief of the county of Forcalquier.

The château was originally a military fortress, in the shape of a vast quadrilateral, featuring a central keep and four defensive towers. It served as a prime lookout post to protect the region. In 1178, the prestigious Sabran family took possession, tying its destiny with the history of Provence through the centuries.

From a medieval fortress to an exceptional residence

One of the château’s most iconic figures is Elzéar de Sabran, born in 1285, who was married at the age of fourteen to Delphine de Signe, the last heiress of the viscounts of Marseille. Together, they would leave a lasting mark on local history through their piety and devotion, eventually being canonised by the Church.

With the return of peace to Provence in the 17th century, the Château d’Ansouis gradually transformed: the ramparts gave way to terraced gardens, and the military austerity softened, transforming the former fortress into an elegant residence. Even today, its refined reception rooms, period furnishings and impressive defensive system bear witness to this glorious past.

In 1936, the Duke and Duchess of Sabran-Pontevès set out to restore the château to its former glory. Then, in 2008, Mr and Mrs Rousset-Rouvière became the new guardians Driven by a passion for heritage, they set about restoring it, while remaining committed to sharing it with as many people as possible. Today, thanks to their dedication, this exceptional residence is now open to visitors, offering a unique journey into the region’s history and Provençal art of living.

Visit the Château d’Ansouis and step into history

Listed as a Historic Monument since 1948, the Château d’Ansouis is now open to visitors for captivating guided tours. Every room, every stone tells a story: from the armoury to the hanging gardens, including the chapel and even the private apartments, the experience is immersive and unforgettable.

In summer, the château comes alive with cultural events: open-air film screenings, concerts, entertainment and historical performances. A unique opportunity to relive days gone by in one of the finest jewels of the Luberon.

Sights and Heritage: let yourself be captivated by Ansouis

Saint-Martin Church

In the heart of the village, Saint-Martin Church captivates with its understated and elegant architecture. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact date of its construction, but it is thought to date back to the late 12th century, when Ansouis was flourishing.

A unique feature of this building is that it has never been extended, thus preserving its original authenticity, despite a few minor alterations over the years. It is a place steeped in history, waiting to be discovered as you wander through the lanes of Ansouis!

Le Balcon: a breathtaking view over the Luberon

From the heights of Ansouis, the Balcon du Barri offers a breathtaking panorama. This exceptional viewpoint reveals the full splendour of the Luberon, with Lourmarin and its valley as a backdrop, Cucuron, and even a glimpse towards the Durance River, in the direction of Villelaure.

An ideal spot to soak up the beauty of the Provençal landscape, watch the play of light across the hills, and enjoy a timeless moment.

Fortified walls: remnants of medieval defence

Ansouis still preserves part of its original ramparts, bearing witness to its defensive past. On the southern side, an impressive curtain wall two metres thick, pierced with arrow slits every two metres, is a reminder of the village’s strategic importance in the Middle Ages.

The construction of this second enclosure is thought to date back to the early 13th century. At the time, it featured just a single tower, located at what is now the château gateway. It was equipped with a watch turret and round loopholes, features typical of medieval defensive systems.

In the 16th century, these ramparts were incorporated into the château, and still form part of its outer walls today. Listed as a Historic Monument in 1948, these remains recall the rich military past of Ansouis and offer a fascinating insight into Provençal fortified architecture.

Place Saint Elzéar

This square pays tribute to Elzéar de Sabran, an iconic figure of the Luberon. This Provençal nobleman was born in 1285, and was married to Delphine de Signe, who had originally wished to enter holy orders. Together, they led a life marked by asceticism and chastity, dedicating their existence to faith and benevolence.

After the death of Elzéar in 1325, his remains were transferred to Apt, where he rests in the Cordeliers Church. His spiritual commitment was recognised by the Church, and he was canonised by Urbain V in 1369. Delphine took a vow of poverty and withdrew to Cabrières-d’Aigues, before spending her final years in Apt, where she was venerated as blessed by popular devotion.

Even today, Ansouis keeps this memory alive by celebrating the village’s Patron Saints every September.

Arts and Museums: Ansouis, a place of inspiration

In Ansouis, art and culture hold a special place. With museums housing remarkable collections and studios run by passionate artists, the village invites you to discover Provençal craftsmanship in all its forms. Painting, ceramics, photography and local traditions, each visit is an immersion in a creative and authentic world.

The Mazoyer family’s Musée Extraordinaire

Housed in an authentic Provençal building, the Musée Extraordinaire truly lives up to its name! From the moment you step inside, striking sculptures catch the eye and set the tone: here, art and natural curiosities come together in a unique world.

Inside, the collection is both artistic and educational: paintings, ceramics, and stained glass sit alongside a fascinating array of fossils, shells, and antique artefacts. It is an extraordinary place, where every object tells a story and invites wonder.

An extraordinary museum not to be missed during your visit to Ansouis!

The Musée des arts et des métiers du vin (wine museum of arts and crafts): a journey into the heart of winegrowing tradition

At Château Turcan, this one-of-a-kind museum invites you to discover the history and expertise of winemaking through an impressive collection of over 3,000 objects.

Viticulture and cooperage tools, including some unique pieces, are on display here, along with one of the oldest presses dating back to the 18th century. You can also explore a fascinating oenology laboratory from 1900, showcasing the techniques of the past.

The Juliet Schlunke gallery

Stay in Ansouis: nature, discovery and open-air escapes

Hiking with panoramic views: the Pâtis hill

For a true immersion in nature, set off on a hike from the village and climb up to the wooded hill of Pâtis. This trail offers spectacular views over the Pays d’Aigues and the Grand Luberon. After climbing in the shade of oaks and pines, admire Ansouis and its ancient fortress through the foliage, an enchanting scene worthy of a postcard.

Cycling and hiking

For cycling enthusiasts, a scenic loop takes you along picturesque roads linking the iconic villages of South Luberon. Adventure through vineyards, lavender fields and small Provençal roads, the perfect combination of exercise and contemplation.

Local flavours

At the foot of the majestic château, discover the delicious produce of the small Ansouis market, held every Sunday morning at the bottom of the village, on the Place du Lavoir. On this very square, you will no doubt be tempted by the enticing aroma of delicious bread from the bakery Les Pains d’Ansouis!

As you make your way up through the village, along the Boulevard des Platanes, the restaurant Garrigue is sure to delight your taste buds!

And just a little further on, opposite the town hall, Théodore Volpert invites you to share his passion for the art of patisserie. Here, you will find a charming tea-room, where you can enjoy a quick lunch at midday or savour delicious pastries with a coffee or tea, indoors or on the terrace. Head over to Art Glacier, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the South Luberon and irresistible ice-cream sundaes!

When it comes to wine, the village will also delight you with its large winegrowers’ cooperative, the Cave Coopérative Vinicole des Côteaux du village d’Ansouis. Established in 1925, it offers red, rosé and white wines with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Just a 10-minute drive from the village, Stéphane and Laurence from the Domaine des Marchands also welcome you for cellar tours by appointment. You’ll love the variety of fruity, aromatic wines on offer which have won several awards.

Top 6 things to do in Ansouis

1. Discover the inhabited 17th-century château, fully furnished
2. Wander through the village and explore its heritage
3. Dive into the unique world of the Mazoyer family’s Extraordinary Museum
4. Stroll through the village’s many art galleries
5. Enjoy a cultural break at the Museum of Arts and Wine at Château Turcan
6. Take in the view and treat yourself to exceptional ice cream at Art Glacier