Les Baux-de-Provence is a village in Provence, South of France, and it occupies, together with the ruins of a castle, a spectacular location on top of a rocky hill with stunning views to the south. Les Baux translates as ‘the rocks’ and it is where the word bauxite derives from as in 1821, aluminium ore (which was named bauxite at the time) was first discovered here.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE EARLY HISTORY
Les Baux-de-Provence has been a popular place for visitors and settlers for a very long time. Human implements and artefacts dating from 6,000 BC have been found in the village and the site has been a fort since the Celts arrived around 200 BC.

In the early Middleages, Les Baux-de-Provence became the centre of power and up to 79 settlements were in the Lords of Baux’s control. Château des Baux was renowned for holding a grand court and for its ornate interior. Following the death of Princess Alice in the 15th century, the dynasty died with her and the castle became a part of the village.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE IN THE 17th CENTURY
In the 17th century, Les Baux-de-Provence defied the Pope and was a centre for rebellious Protestantism. Cardinal Richelieu in 1632 crushed the religious rebellion and punished Les Baux-de-Provence by demolishing its castle.

In 1642, the village was given to the Grimaldi family who were and are rulers of Monaco. Today, the title Marquis des Baux belongs to Prince Albert of Monaco although, technically, the title lapsed with the death of his grandfather, Prince Louis II, who died without a male heir.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE TODAY
A beautiful location and a rich history bring many tourists to Les Baux-de-Provence, which is considered to be one of the prettiest and most unusual villages in France. At one time the population was 4,000 but now a mere 22 people live in the old village.

History may have been harsh on the village but visitors can still marvel at the rocky terrain, the picturesque ruins and the magnificent views. In the grounds of the Château des Baux there are often demonstrations of a medieval catapult called a Trebuchet which also attracts many visitors.

Photo Credit: daneen vol | Holiday Velvet offers Provence holiday rentals and in particular Les Baux de Provence villas.