Fortified caves of Villecroze
VILLECROZE
Villecroze’s troglodytic caves are cozily settled in the heart of a sunny cliff made of tufa. They successively belonged to Benedictine monks, to the local Lord (who fortified it) and eventually to the Municipality.
You will discover, over 5 levels, mullioned windows, arrow-slits, a passage behind the waterfall, small water reserves with numerous varied concretions, including large stalactites and frames of lacy tufa.
They formerly belonged to the Benedictines who took refuge there during the Saracen invasions. Vigilants, they lived there perhaps, defended themselves surely, escaped them sometimes without doubt by the enormous orifice of a monumental chimney which debouched on the top of the cave.
It was at this time of the IXth century that the caves, of natural origin, were used for the purpose of protection against the invader and that transformations were made there: loopholes, bars of protection of the exits transformed the places in underground fortresses .
From the 12th century, Villecroze flourished, vigilance was relaxed, surveillance seems to have abandoned the caves and these deprived of human presence has suffered the wear of time.
Due to their historical and geological significance, the caves were classified in 1924 as "Artstic Monuments".
Spoken languages : English, French, Dutch,
Labels & Classifications
- Listed natural site
- Natura 2000
Durations
- Session duration : 45 min
- Group session duration : 45 min
Activity information
Duration : 45 min
Prices
Adult: 5 €.
Buy tickets at www.grottes-villecroze.fr
Children under 6 are not admitted.
Galery
Contact
83690 - VILLECROZE
Modified from 02/04/2026 by "Office de Tourisme Intercommunal Lacs et Gorges du Verdon".
Opening
April, May, June: Wednesday to Sunday (+ public holidays): visits at 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m.
July and August: daily: visits at 10 and 11 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2, 3, 4 and 5 p.m.
September: Wednesday to Sunday: visits at 10 and 11 a.m., and 2, 3 and 4 p.m.
October: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday: visits at 1, 2 and 3 p.m.
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