Some places are quite simply unique. The Palais St. Firmin, in the centre of Gordes, in Luberon, stands over a complex carved out in the rock, listed as a Historic Monument. These cellars, on several levels, are an underground mirror image of the village dating from the Middle Ages and were essentially dedicated to the manufacture of olive oil. You can visit the place, including –on request- the terraced gardens, with the owner, or you can hire the entire place to organise a cocktail party.
As a mark of life in Gordes since the Middle Ages, the cellars bear the vestiges of a busy life within the rock. While people lived on the surface, local cottage industries set up shop deep in the rock.
For groups only:
– Guided tour of the garden (min 8 pers. upon reservation only, all year long except in August)
– Garden rental possible upon request
In this atypical place, the private property of Count and Countess Morand, option for individuals:
– 25 minute unaccompanied tour (documentary and 3D video) of the three levels of the cellars, after a documentary relating the story, architecture and restoration of the place. A 3D video recreates the last craft present in the cellars: an oil mill. Many objects, found during archaeological digs, are on display as remnants of daily life and work in the village.
€6 /adult public rate, €5 /pers. discounted rate
Address
Caves du Palais Saint Firmin
Rue du Belvédère
84220 GORDES
www.caves-saint-firmin.com
Contact : Marie-Capucine Maringe
caves.saint.firmin@gmail.com
T. 33 (0)6 61 20 36 44
GPS Coordinates
5.197762
43.928522