Village des Bories

Located near Gordes, in the Vaucluse region, at the heart of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, this listed historical site invites you to discover a heritage of dry stone, a testament to the agricultural history of the Luberon. A true invitation to travel back in time, this picturesque setting allows you to walk in the footsteps of a distant past, where dry stones tell a story. Classified as a historical monument, we invite you to step through the doors of this must-visit site.

A millennia-old heritage in the heart of Provence

The Village des Bories is a cluster of dry stone huts originally used for agricultural purposes, now converted into a museum of rural habitat and classified as a historical monument in 1977. These constructions, some of which date back to the Bronze Age, showcase a unique adaptation to the challenges of the territory. During this distant era, the use of stones extracted from the fields made it possible to build functional and durable structures, demonstrating remarkable ingenuity.

Over the centuries, these huts evolved to meet the specific agricultural needs of Provençal farmers. During the 17th and 18th centuries, under the pressure of a growing population, new lands were cultivated, requiring shelters for tools, harvests, and workers. These bories, perfectly integrated into the landscapes of the Luberon, stand as a living testament to the collective effort and ingenuity of a society deeply connected to the land.

The dry stone construction technique used to build the bories relies on craftsmanship passed down from generation to generation. No binding agent was used: the stones were carefully stacked to create sturdy walls and corbelled vaults. This construction method, combining simplicity and durability, perfectly illustrates the harmony between humans and their environment. The bories showcase technical mastery that stands as an early example of sustainability, emphasizing the use of locally sourced materials.

Each hut, called a "borie," is a true work of art. This hamlet, once known as "Les Cabanes," was typical of the temporary dwellings that complemented permanent villages in Mediterranean regions to meet the needs of seasonal work. Located 4 km from the hilltop village of Gordes, at an altitude of 270 meters, it now serves as a unique testament to dry stone architecture.

Abandoned in the 19th century due to rural exodus and agricultural changes, the Village des Bories site nearly disappeared under vegetation. It was rediscovered in the 1960s thanks to Pierre Viala, a passionate advocate for Provençal heritage. Captivated by the unique character of these huts, he undertook their restoration to transform them into a living museum dedicated to rural habitat. This conservation effort saved a precious heritage, highlighting an architecture that combines ingenuity, resilience, and respect for the environment.

Today, the Village des Bories welcomes visitors in an authentic and immersive setting. In addition to its iconic huts, the site houses a permanent collection of traditional tools and objects, as well as extensive documentation on the history of Gordes and the art of dry stone construction in France and around the world.

While visiting Gordes, take the opportunity to discover other historical sites in this village, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, such as the Abbaye de Sénanque, the Château de Gordes, or the Caves du Palais Saint Firmin. Find all the information on our dedicated page.
The site is also the starting point for hiking trails, allowing you to discover the magnificent landscapes of the Monts de Vaucluse, perfect for nature and walking enthusiasts.