At the heart of Provence, close to Mount Ventoux in Vaucluse, lies a delightful little town. Welcome to Pernes-les-Fontaines, whose distinguishing feature is the fact that it possesses… 40 fountains! Colossal or more discreet, adorned with mascarons, mossy or sculpted, discover them all by following the "fountain trail" around the town. The most beautiful include the Gigot fountain and the Cormoran fountain, both dating from the 18th century and listed on France's inventory of historic monuments.
Pernes-les-Fontaines also boasts some remarkable medieval heritage. The ramparts have remained intact and still have their gates, like the gate of Our Lady (Notre-Dame) from the 14th century, adorned with two towers overlooking the river. On the picturesque bridge over the Nesque, you may be surprised to discover a small chapel dating back to the early 16th century. Within the town walls, a series of incredibly charming cobblestone streets, shady squares and small chapels await you. All that remains of the castle of the Counts of Toulouse, built in the 12th century, the Clock Tower offers fantastic views of the Comtat plain and Mount Ventoux from the top. The Ferrande Tower is equally unmissable, with its sumptuous 13th-century frescoes. These are extremely well preserved, as is the Church of Our Lady of Nazareth, which is Romanesque in origin. As you explore the medieval town, you should also stop along the way to contemplate the beautiful mansions, like the Brancas and Cheylus mansions.
Those with an interest in period fabrics and Provençal costumes should pay a visit to the Museum of Comtadin Costume, based in a former 19th-century fabric shop.
