Mollégès
In the heart of the Alpilles
This small Provencal village is known for its authentic charm, picturesque streets, and typically Provencal atmosphere. It is surrounded by landscapes of vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields, providing an ideal setting for nature and tranquility lovers.
To discover
in Mollégès
5 reasons to visit Mollégès
ts Cistercian Abbey of Notre-Dame de Mollégès
Its parish church of Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens
Its Place du Lavoir, or Place des Tanfasian
Its Cheval monument, the only one carved in stone in France
Its animal park, the Arche de Méo
On vacation in Mollégès
The small village of Mollégès invites you to enjoy its stunning landscapes, a blend of lavender fields and vineyards. Its proximity to other towns, such as Saint-Rémy-de-Provence or Les Baux-de-Provence, makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the region. Last but not least: the local cuisine is absolutely delightful!
Summer Holidays
Two religious buildings are visible within Mollégès. The older of the two, the Saint-Thomas Chapel, was built around 960 and was the center of the original village, which was little more than a gathering of shepherds’ houses. Originally a Roman altar, despite its Christian repurposing, the deity worshipped was the Earth Mother. About a century later, when the parish church was built, the chapel was incorporated into the new cemetery.
The second church, Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens, was constructed on the site of another Romanesque church (which replaced the Saint-Thomas Chapel), demolished in 1857. Opening its doors in 1864, the new church is still known for the bright colors chosen to paint its interior walls. An intriguing detail is that when the builders demolished the first church, they discovered it had been built on stilts, like Venetian houses.
Speaking of the church, you cannot miss the imposing building adjacent to it, the Notre-Dame de Mollégès Abbey.
Founded in 1208 under the name Abbey of Sainte-Marie by Sacristane de Porcelet (the youngest of the Porcellets family, one of the greatest families in Provence), she became the second abbess in 1218. Housing about fifty nuns, mostly from respectable families, the congregation quickly earned the nickname “Les Dames de Mollégès.” Following her separation from her husband, Sacristane inherited numerous lands, including three-quarters of Mollégès, which she bequeathed to the abbey upon her death. For two centuries, from the 13th to the 15th century, the abbey symbolized the city’s power, despite constant rivalries with the secular lords of Mollégès.
However, the abbey’s prominence gradually faded. First, epidemics such as plague and cholera struck. Later, around 1360, Raymond de Turenne and his Grande Compagnie (nicknamed the “Scourge of Provence,” he led a group of lawless mercenaries who plundered and stole throughout Provence) partially burned the abbey. In 1436, the nuns left the site permanently, attaching it to the royal abbey of Sainte-Croix d’Apt, allowing the King to reclaim the taxes previously held by the abbey.
It was not until 1664 that Louis XIV authorized a new congregation, under the direction of the abbess of Sainte-Croix, Dame de Mollégès.
In the 16th century, the noble Châteauneuf-Mollégès family acquired the abbey, rebuilt it in a more Renaissance style, and settled inside. In 1763, upon the death of the last family member, Anne de Châteauneuf, the nuns regained their abbey until the French Revolution, when the congregation was permanently dissolved.
Your vacation home
near Mollégès
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"Built in 1860 and restored in 2018, the Lavoir was a central place in the village, the main spot where all the gossip was heard. The clear water that springs from the ground is called 'lauron,' a common phenomenon in the Crau region. Its tiled roof will keep you dry in case of rain!"
Golf Courses Nearby
Places to visit in Mollégès
Despite its small size, Mollégès has many activities to offer for those willing to explore the town!
Family Vacation
Exotic plants, two large ponds, over 450 different animals… You’re not in the jungle, but simply at the Arche de Méo!
Romantic Getaway
“Looking for a romantic outing? Try visiting one of the vineyards in our area!
Our personal recommendation is Domaine Benoit – Mas de Lonchamp. Certified Organic since 1998, this winemaker will be delighted to show you around the vineyard and maybe even let you taste some of their products!”
Vacation with Your Dog
Many walks are possible around the village and in the two nearby natural parks of the Alpilles and the Luberon. Whether your four-legged companion is big, strong, and used to long walks, or much smaller and more accustomed to being a champion napper, there are trails for all preferences!
Getting to Mollégès
The village of Mollégès is crossed by the D24 and the D31.
To visit Provence, the most recommended airports are Marseille, Montpellier, and Nice.
Bus line 704 connects Mollégès to most of the larger nearby cities. The nearest TGV station is Avignon TGV.
Cyclotourism routes are plentiful in the region and are suitable for all skill levels.
Nearby towns to Mollégès
- Saint-Andiol: About 3 kilometers.
- Plan-d’Orgon: About 4 kilometers.
- Eygalières: About 5 kilometers.
- Cabannes: About 6 kilometers.
- Orgon: About 7 kilometers.
Nearby towns to Mollégès
History, Traditions, and Culture
The history of Mollégès is inseparable from that of its abbey, with the town growing and declining alongside it. From a marsh that limited the inhabitants to a particular type of agriculture, the monks and later the nuns managed to drain it enough so that numerous pastures could accommodate various animal herds.
The town’s name comes from “molle gesium” (literally “soft land”), and Roman remains indicate that fishing was a common practice there. An underground aqueduct and a villa have also been discovered.
In the Middle Ages, little is known before the construction of the first church of Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens. But in 1385, the inhabitants revolted against Marie de Blois, who, following a succession war, invaded their lands in 1383. Despite the inhabitants making “amende honorable,” most of their possessions were confiscated.
The most famous festival in Mollégès is the Fête de Saint Eloi. For two consecutive days, the village comes alive with celebrations. On Sunday afternoon, the regional tradition of “carreto ramado” will parade through the streets. In the morning, a grand parade in traditional costumes is also a must-see.
