The ''Olive Tree City''

A Village packed with History

Ollioules could be compared to an open art book. Monuments from different periods are scattered through town; from Romanesque to Hausmanian style, centuries have left a distinct yet soft print on the city’s shape and facades.

Passed the Romanesque St Laurent church, walk up the slopy cobblestoned medieval streets that display arches & vaulted passages ;  a few meters away, just above a connecting porch opens a large vertical Renaissance window framed by an elaborated gypsum décor.

As you walk along you may feel inspired by the colourful facades and the atmosphere, just like the many craftsmen who have chosen to make their home base in town. Art galleries, & workshops are plentiful & most are dedicated to the revival of some of the original town’s activities (gypsum, wrought iron works etc…)

Ollioules’ Artists & Craftsmen

Just to name but a few the “Olive tree art Gallery” gathers a selection of some of their creations. We recommend you visit the “Santonnier” Claude Ferrito who shapes nativity clay figures and Beatrice Potin, a bronze sculptor but once again, the choice is yours.

Tour would not be complete without the nougat (honey & almond confectionery) factory visit, “sweet tooth alert” !!!

What to do:

• Guided tour in the Provençal village (duration: about 2-3 h)

  • Walking tour in the village
  • Visit of 2 workshops and a gallery
  • Visit of the nougat factory with nougat sampling & the opportunity to purchase some while on the tour

  For more:
  Visit to the medieval castle or to a well-restored olive oil mill, operated by a stream flow, located in the immediate surroundings of the village. You may also check out on the School Museum a new addition to the town tourist offer, sort of revival of the Old Times schools!