Oppede-le-Vieux, the Old Village

Perched on a rocky spur, the hill town of Oppede dates back to post Roman time, the 12th century. At the top of the hill are the medieval fortress ruins and the church, Notre Dame d'Alidon, which was partially rebuilt in the 16th century.

 

The old village of Oppede is the result of over a thousand years of history followed by a century of abandonment.

 

As we hiked amongst the village's buildings and network of streets, we came upon whole rooms built into the rock. It's amazing how intact some of them still are. The newer section--16th, 17th, 18th centuries--still stand with some buildings refurbished.

 

Once we made it to the church summit, we were rewarded with a spectacular view of the entire valley and the Luberon mountains.