Village de Thoard

Overlooking the Vallée des Duyes, Thoard has been occupied since Antiquity by Celtic populations. It is a fine example of medieval housing with a defensive appearance, with its houses grouped around the old castle site.

After the Revolution, Thoard became the capital of the canton. The village remains a very active center of life.

This rich history makes Thoard a labyrinth... Indeed, Thoard has no shortage of galleries, corridors, secrets. The fountain, for example, is decorated with an inscription so mysterious that it has still not been translated.

Fair days are always highlights of local life. In February, St Blaise is a great pagan festival where we celebrate the death of winter. In August, the lamb fair brings together several hundred animals of the breed of the Southern Prealps.

Sainte Madeleine Chapel

The chapel, accessible in 1 hour's walk, dominates the village on its rocky peak. It was restored by the Haute Provence Geological Reserve and houses a work by Andy Goldworthy.

Le village

In the heart of the fortified medieval village, an old restored fountain and several wash houses to discover along the walks. In addition to the 12th century keep-bell tower, the Notre Dame de Bethlehem church dominates the old town, classified as a historic monument.
In the alleys of the medieval village, the high houses built of stone, the low doors and the covered passages give an impression of intimacy and protection.