Manosque

Visit Manosque, Provence

Manosque is situated south of Forcalquier and north-east of Aix-en-Provence, to the south-west of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department in south-east France.

This traditional Provencal town, now quite substantial in size (with a population around 23000 it is the most populated town in the Allpes-de-Haute-Provence department), is situated on a hill in the renowned olive groves of the region (photo above shows olive tree and lavender field near Manosque), and has an interesting medieval centre to explore.

Exploring Manosque

Manosque old town is entered by two impressive 14th century gateways through the original fortifications, called the Porte du Soubeyran and the Porte de la Saunerie (most of the ramparts were removed to make way for the broad streets that now surround the old town).

Inside the gates you will discover traditional Provencal houses and small open squares interlinked by narrow streets, with the Place de l'Hotel de Ville at the centre.

The small Church of Notre-Dame de Romigier, a roman style church dating from the 13th century, is found on this square. The church is most interesting because it contains an 11th century statue of the black Virgin, and a very ancient (5th century) sarcophagus. The renaissance style Town Hall is also here.

Another religious building of interest in Manosque is the 13th century Church of Saint-Sauveur. This church is particularly noteworthy for having one of the most impressive campaniles in France on its clocktower, while inside there is a highly regarded 17th century organ.

The weekly market in Manosque is held on a Saturday.

For art enthusiasts one popular attraction is the art exhibition at Fondation Carzou, situated in an old convent and with frescoes by an Armenian artist called Jean Carzou; while another art centre - the Centre Giono - celebrates the work of local (20th century) artist Jean Giono.

Attractions nearby

If you feel like escaping the town centre, take the easy walk to the Mont d'Or - although little remains of the 12th century castle that once stood here, there are lovely views back across Manosque and the Durance Valley. The Manosque tourist Office can suggest longer walks in the surrounding countryside if you are feeling more energetic.

Manosque is a well placed regional centre for exploring the villages and countryside of this slightly less visited part of Provence.

Note: manosque is twinned with Voghera (Lombardy, Italy)

See Provence-Alpes-Cote-d'Azur and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence (the region and department for Manosque) for more travel ideas...

Tourist classifications for Manosque: Village in bloom (ville fleurie) 1*;

Suggested places to visit near Manosque, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Lurs 17km; Oppedette 19km; Simiane-la-Rotonde 24km; Riez 25km; Ansouis 28km; Cucuron 28km; Apt 31km; Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt 34km; Lourmarin 35km; Moustiers 35km; Barjols 36km;

Manosque tourist information: sights and attractions nearby

Jardins du prieuré de Salagon - remarkable garden (12km) : Jardins du château de Sauvan - remarkable garden (12km) : Clos de Villeneuve - remarkable garden (16km) : Prieuré Notre Dame (Ganagobie) - religious monument (21km) : Colorado Provencal - site of natural beauty (26km) : Jardin du château de Val Joanis - remarkable garden (27km) : Jardin à la française du Pavillon de Galon - remarkable garden (28km) : Lac de Sainte-Croix - site of natural beauty (33km) :

See more places and a map at places near Manosque