Following the barbarian invasions, the villagers sought the safety of hilltop places. A castrum was established on the rock in 1009 and the first walls appeared in the 11th century. Ramparts were successively built between the late 13th and early 16th century, but with the castrum becoming too cramped, the village extended beyond the defensive walls. Abandoned, the old fortified castle of Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt fell to ruin.
The 19th century saw the complete abandon of the old village that was perched too high. The villagers left it for more spacious and comfortable houses. Little by little, the old houses collapsed, leaving nothing but sumptuous ruins, pillaged and overrun by bramble.
Today, you can climb a steep trail to the imposing ruins of the castle and its ramparts, from which you can admire the stunning panorama.
The chapel overlooks the village of Saint- Saturnin -les-Apt
Château médiéval - 84490 Saint Saturnin les Apt
http://www.saintsaturninlesapt.fr/Where to sleep?
