Here, There and Ireland, too!: Another Day in the Medieval World

Well, it has been another great day here in the Luberon. I did make it to Rousillon. It was worth the trip. I made it there by 9:30. I was the only car in the parking lot. When I got back to the parking lot at 11:15, people were waiting for spaces. It was unbelievable.

Rousillon was really beautiful. It's church, St. Michel, was simple but graceful. It was fun to watch the locals open up their shops and prepare their displays. Art galleries were everywhere and their were some fantastic art work. Alain Camera was one name I remember and I especially liked his floral pieces, really different.

From here I headed to Menerbe. Perched high on a hill it was a climb to reach but quiet and medieval as well. I bought some lunch here to take with me to my next stop, the Abbey St. Hillaire. Rick Steeves says to use the bench in front of the Abbey for a picnic. The Abbey was beautiful and very old. It is currently operated by the Cisternians. It grounds were quiet and well kept. It was certainly peaceful. The bench, however, was in the direct sun. I sat over to the side which did not offer much shade and began to eat my ham and cheese croissant. Rick failed to mention the bees. They were everywhere and very hungry. I hopped in the car and finished my lunch driving to Lacoste.

Lacoste was probably the best preserved of the medieval towns. It was also the steepest. I climbed to the top, cobblestone streets and all to see the chateau. The chateau was the home to the Marquis de Sade. It is now owned and being restored by Pierre Cardin, who lives in the village. There were few tourists here and it was nice to be able to walk around without crowds. It was a great experience.

My last stop was the Pont Julien. It is a Roman bridge that has been in use from Roman times until 2005. It was in great shape. The river that was under it is completely dry.

With the window open my open is more bearable. I did sleep well last night as it cooled down nicely. I am having dinner here again as it was great food and very peace here at night. Tomorrow I move to Aix en Provence (X).