Apt is the capital of Pays d’Apt, situated in the Luberon, a richly colourful region with a diversity of landscapes, ranging from quaint picturesque villages which dote the area with a unique charm, to majestic trodden footpaths winding through ochre mines. These unique landscapes create a rich palette of reds and yellows, which is one of the most beautiful and sought after wonders in Provence.
Located at 288 meters above sea level in the heart of Provence and the Luberon, this Provençal capital is known for its culinary delights, picturesque village and rich cultural heritage. The Roman « Apta Julia » is almost entirely pedestrian, and is perfect for quiet strolls and discovering local treasures such as the basilica, markets and museums.
Of special note: the ochre massif, easily accessible by well marked paths beginning notably in Apt, is one of the oldest and largest in the world. Additionally, the Luberon Regional Nature Park (167 676 ha encompassing 77 towns) was recognized by UNESCO in 1977 as a biosphere reserve, due to its exceptional variety of flora and fauna.
Don’t miss:
The Sainte-Anne Cathedral
The Sainte-Anne Cathedral is one of the oldest basilica/cathedrals in Provence. Originally built on Merovingian crypts, the cathedral’s architecture has undergone many changes over time. In the 17th century, a chapel was built in honour of Anne of Austria, who had come to Apt on a pilgrimage to thank Sainte Anne for the birth of Louis XIV.
In addition, the basilica houses the reliquaries of the Holy Patroness of the church as well as several of her treasures, including priest’s robes, Saint Delphine’s book of hours and her enamel reliquaries.
The bridge « Pont Julien »
The Pont Julien is a three ached Roman bridge built more that 2,000 years ago on the « Via Domitia » across the Cavalon (the river flowing beneath the Sainte Anne Hotel). It is one of the best preserved bridges in Provence, having admirably resisted averse weather conditions and the floods of the Cavalon throughout the ages.
