Built in 1480 and located above the village of Lourmarin, Lourmarin Castle is a historic monument open to visitors all year round. With a unique history and a Renaissance style that gives it a certain character, Lourmarin Castle is renowned as one of the most beautiful castles in Vaucluse!
In this article, we will introduce you to one of the Luberon’s gems that you must visit if you are heading to the region for a holiday.
The History of Lourmarin Castle
Built by the d’Agoult family in the 15th century, Lourmarin Castle was the first Renaissance castle in Provence; even today, its oldest section can be admired, bearing witness to a prosperous and very rich era. It was also built on the ruins of a 12th-century fortress; from 1526, when the castle was completed, Louis d’Agoult-Montauban and his wife, Blanche de Lévis-Ventadour, had a
After changing owners several times over the centuries, Lourmarin Castle fell into ruin at the end of the 19th century, before being providentially saved from destruction in 1920 by Robert Laurent-Vibert, a Lyon industrialist and art enthusiast who restored it, before bequeathing it to establish a Foundation bearing his name at the Académie des Sciences, Agriculture, Arts et Belles Lettres d’Aix-en-Provence before his death in 1925.
Today, the foundation’s missions are cultural: young artists are welcomed throughout the year to present their works to the public, alongside concerts, conferences, and exhibitions.
Admissions and Guided Tours of the Castle
Whether you decide to visit Lourmarin Castle alone or with others, it is possible to book guided tours to appreciate this prestigious historic setting with exceptional architecture, and also to discover beautiful collections, such as period furniture (from the 16th to 19th century), engravings, art objects, and musical instruments. This visit is also ideal for families: with a treasure hunt offered to young visitors, each child will have the opportunity to solve riddles and make this visit fun and enriching.
Regarding opening hours, Lourmarin Castle is open every day for visits, except December 25th and January 1st; however, opening hours vary depending on the season and are as follows:
- From May to September: 10:30 AM to 6:45 PM
- From November to March: 10:30 AM to 12:45 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:15 PM
- April and October: 10:30 AM to 5:45 PM
Regarding prices, they vary depending on visitors: the full price is €8, while admission for children aged 6 to 12 is €3.50, and admission for those under 6 years old is free. Note that the castle offers a reduced rate of €6.50 for groups of more than 12 people, students, and unemployed individuals.
Curiosities and Legends Around the Castle
Lourmarin Castle, though highly visited throughout the year, is subject to a persistent rumor concerning a certain curse: as mentioned earlier, the castle was left abandoned until 1920, and Gypsy families had taken up residence there to find refuge. When Robert Laurent-Vibert decided to buy the ruin to rebuild it into a castle, he drove out these undesirable occupants. It is said that upon leaving, the Gypsies left behind a curse that would strike anyone who occupied Lourmarin Castle. It is said that this curse materialized in the form of strange graffiti carved on the castle walls, and some people who contributed to the castle’s rehabilitation met
What to See Near the Castle
Besides Lourmarin Castle, the Luberon region is ideal if you plan to spend a stay there; if you enjoy hiking, know that there are a multitude of trails, each as unique as the next, such as the Ochre Trail in Roussillon, a route to explore within a colorful and atypical village, the Cedar Forest of Bonnieux if you like peace and quiet, or the Provençal Colorado of Rustrel where you can discover the region’s industrial past. To learn more about hiking in the Luberon, click here!
If you wish to extend your cultural discoveries, you can visit the various villages that make up the Luberon, starting with the village of Lourmarin, which, in addition to its castle, is renowned for its Provençal markets and friendly atmosphere; also discover the village of Gordes, a village famous for its dry stone houses, its castle, and its charming narrow streets. Finally, we recommend the village of Lacoste, famous for the Marquis de Sade’s castle, as well as its old houses and authentic charm.
Want to know more about what the Luberon has to offer? Then click on this link and discover what there is to do in one of the most beautiful regions in the South of France!
Come to the Luberon to discover Lourmarin Castle!
During your stay in the Luberon, make a detour to Lourmarin and discover its castle! Whether you’re with friends or family, this majestic monument will charm you with its authenticity, its exhibitions, and its breathtaking panorama!
Want to book your stay in the Luberon but don’t know where to go? Provence Plaisirs offers everything you need for a successful holiday, and it’s just a click away! Visit our website and let our team book you the best accommodation options in the Luberon!