Discover the Roman Town of Apt, Provence
Experience this Bustling Market Town in the Heart of the Luberon
Mar 10, 2009
Apt, originally a Roman settlement (Apta Julia), is situated in the heart of the Luberon National Park on the River Coulon and was the first settlement in Provence. The old quarter lies beside the river, while new parts nestle in the surrounding foothills.
Historical Market
The colourful and lively Saturday market is the largest in the region, with over 350 stall holders during the summer taking over the town. Held throughout the year it has been a tradition in the town since the 12th century. A patent from the parliament of Provence made it an institution in 1504, and in 1996 it received the prestigious label 'Exceptional French Market.'
Farmer's Market
In addition, the marché paysan, or farmer's market, is held every Tuesday morning, specialising in local fruit, vegetables, flowers, wines, fruit juices, aromatic plants, olive oils, cheese and poultry .
Renowned Centre for Confectionery Production
Apt is famous as the centre of production for candied, crystallised fruit and jams. The vibrant Salon de Thé, in the Place du Postel, displays a mouth watering array of the Provençal speciality, 'tourron.' These colourful rolls of almond paste are flavoured with cherries, almonds, pine kernels, coffee or pistachio. The confectionary factory, Kerry Aptunion, a major part of the town's economic development since 1964, is located 2km outside of the town on the main road towards Goult.
The Old Quarter
Narrow streets and cobblestones mark the ancient Rue des Marchands. Winding through the centre of the town, as its name suggests, it's crammed on either side with an abundance of shops selling local crafts and specialities; including delicious foodstuffs containing the Provence black truffles. Rubbing shoulders with the vibrant pavement cafés, the 16th century bell tower, tour de l'horloge, spans the street and is a symbol of the town. Next to it is the 12th century Cathédrale de Ste-Anne. One of the oldest in Provence with its Romanesque crypt and valuable relics, it's located on the site of a much older church, on the foundations of a Roman Temple.
Exhibitions
The Rue des Marchands skirts the edge of Place Jean-Jaurés, where the 18th century maison de parc is located; packed with information and advice about the beautiful Luberon National Park. The Musée de paléntologie is housed in the maison's 13th century vaulted cellar and contains an extensive collection of fossils, and pre-historic creatures. Guides are on hand to take you back 130 million years.
Public Park
A dramatic contrast to the narrow, shaded alley-ways of the old quarter is the expanse of Cours Lauze de Camille Pelleton. This area, normally reserved for parking or market stalls, is where you'll find the public park. Built in 1903 the mossy fountains, ponds and exotic plants provide a relaxing place to sit and soak up the sun and the atmosphere of this Roman market town.
Lively Centre
Apt is a bustling centre for activities throughout the year, including the annual Corso, or carnival, held over the Pentecost weekend. Specialist pottery and antiques markets add to the lively ambience of Apt and les tréteaux de nuit, brings concerts, café theatre and exhibitions to the town during July and August.
Ideal Base
Apt is a good base from which to travel around the area. Well placed for the rugged mountain scenery of Rustrel and Sault it is the gateway to the southern side of the Luberon mountains and the stunning villages of Lourmarin and Cucuron.
The Tourist Office in Apt lies beside the river in the centre of the town and is a valuable source of information about Apt and the surrounding area.
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