On the Roman Bridge, as your footsteps echo against the ancient stones, look up and be captivated by the majestic silhouette of the medieval city of Vaison-la-Romaine. You enter a world where the past comes to life before your eyes.
The narrow cobbled streets and stone houses, seemingly frozen in time, instantly transport you to the 12th century, a time when the city was the scene of conflicts between the Count of Toulouse and the bishop. The ensuing looting prompted the population to abandon the valley in favor of the rocky heights. The fortified architecture of the old town bears witness to this turbulent era, with its imposing ramparts and fortified gates.
Over the centuries, new buildings emerged in the valley, extending the history of the old town all the way to the Roman Bridge. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the inhabitants of Vaison-la-Romaine turned to the lower town, gradually abandoning the old town.
The medieval city, also called the Upper Town, is accessible after walking along the ramparts and the Belfry. The latter offers a picturesque panorama overlooking the city, dominated by the count's castle. In the past, access to this city was protected by emblematic gates such as the Old Gate, also known as the St. Quenin Gate, and the New Gate. These gates, true guardians of the city's security, closed every evening from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., thus testifying to the importance placed on protecting residents from external threats.
From the Old Market Square, where the Upper Town once flourished economically, admire the still-present remains of the wall that surrounded the Jewish quarter. The panoramic views of the valley and Mont Ventoux from the “Planet” add a touch of poetry to the medieval atmosphere of the cobbled streets, lined with old mansions and Comtat fountains.