Between the departments of Dr\u00f4me and Vaucluse, there lies a there is a region called the Enclave des Papes. Its capital, Valr\u00e9as, combines the charm of an ancient city with the remarkable landscapes of Dr\u00f4me Proven\u00e7ale. Situated 38 kilometers from the Bastets campsite, it invites you to discover its extraordinary cultural heritage and nature.<\/p>\n
The traces of the papacy, which reigned here before the enclave was attached to the kingdom of France, are ubiquitous. The architectural heritage of Valr\u00e9as is full of gems such as the Romanesque tower of the old Ripert castle, or the huge Notre Dame de Nazareth church dating from the 12th century, its nativity scene with century-old figurines is famous across Provence. The governance of the popes also gave birth to \u00a0local monastic orders, like that of the White Penitents who devoted themselves to the sick.<\/p>\n
In\u00a0Valr\u00e9as, even married men could occasionally join the order of Franciscan monks while preserving their social and family ties. To keep their anonymity, these Black Penitents wore a black hood \u00a0when they served in the chapel of the Grande Rue.<\/p>\n
As for its aristocracy, Valr\u00e9as also has a lot to show. Plan a visit of the Ch\u00e2teau de Simiane where the town hall is currently located. Built in the 17th century, the magnificent residence was acquired by Pauline, the favourite granddaughter of the Marquise de S\u00e9vign\u00e9 who frequently resided at the Ch\u00e2teau de Grignan located 8 kilometers away! Simiane offers visitors a collection of rare books, some of which date from before the creation of the printing press.<\/p>\n