Siutated in the southwestern corner of the Alpes-de-Haute in Provence, 42km from Apt and 94km from Avignon, Forcalquier was the capital of Haute, or High Provence during the Middle Ages.
The Weekly Large Provençal Market in Forcalquier, France
These days it is an attractive bustling town with a large and popular market held weekly on Monday mornings throughout the year. The market is at its largest on the first Monday of each month and sells everything from locally grown fruit and vegetables to agricultural equipment, local crafts and homeware. It has a notably large selection of biologique, or organic produce and is held predominately in the Place du Bourguet, although frequently it extends through the narrow streets of the town.
Historical and Religious Monuments to See when Visiting Forcalquier in Provence
A notable structure in the centre of Forcalquier is the 'Co-Cathedral,' or Notre Dame de l'Assomption. Dating back to around the 12th century, this stunning church includes Roman and Gothic stonework, 17th century bell towers and an ancient organ. First built in the shape of a latin cross, the nave was considered, at the time, as being the highest in Provence. The name, 'Co-Cathedral,' was first given to the Saint-Mary Church, which was erected high above the town on the hill of the ancient Citadel, by the Bishop of Sisteron, before transferring to the main church in the town in 1468.
Other notable churches include the Chapels of the Blessed Sacrament of the Cross, built in a 15th century Gothic style. It boasts a 16th century campanile, or bell tower, which is crowned with a Renaissance style lantern. During the 17th century the second floor of the bell tower was added. The main bell called, Maria Sauveterra, weighs 1150kg. The organs in the Chapel date back to the 16th century. It was attacked during the religious wars and again during the French Revolution before undergoing refurbishment during the 19th century.
Visitors to Forcalquier can enjoy a walk along the cobble stoned path that leads up to the 'Citadel.' A 19th century octagonal, the Notre-Dame-de-Provence Chapel, is located high above the town where the 10th century Citadel stood before its destruction in 1601. Also, in the walled area above the town stands the highly ornate Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix monument and a Carillion with 16 bells. Each one has carved plaques for each of the notes and the person the bell is dedicated to. All are assessible to visitors via a stone path. It's a steep climb with countless steps but wooden benches located along the route provide a shady place to sit and take in the stunning views across the rooftops of Forcalquier and to the French Alps on the distant horizon.
Events Held in Forcalquier, Provence, France, During the Year
- Weekly Market - Monday mornings, throughout the year
- Foire la Brocante (Antiques Fair) - held Sundays during July and August
- Carillion concert - held every Sunday morning from July to September at 11.30am
- Organ concert - held every Sunday evening during July and August 5.30pm
As well as the religious monuments, Forcalquier has some very attractive fountains, including one dedicated to Marguerite, wife of Louis IX, King of France and many tree lined squares. A portion of the old fortified walls of the town remain and Place St Michel is a lovely area in the heart of the old town. It is surrounded by ancient buildings, some dating back to the 12th century.
The local museum, or Musée Municipal, houses prehistoric and Gallo-Roman archeology, glasswork and Faïence pottery. It is open all year and is located beside the Mairie at 2 Place du Bourguet and provides an added attraction for visitors to this interesting and historical town.
Forcalquier is a significant town for the local economy and has a major commercial influence on the surrounding area. This means many of the shops, cafés and restaurants remain open throughout the year, making Forcalquier an interesting and popular town to visit at anytime of the year.
Heidi Brand - After winning first prize in an English Creative Writing competiton at school it took me over twenty years to re-discover the world of ...
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